MOBILE, Ala. – The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Dense Fog Advisory for portions of Southwest Alabama, warning motorists of dangerously low visibility through Saturday morning.
The advisory, released at 10:34 p.m. Friday, remains in effect from 11 p.m. Friday until 8 a.m. Saturday, covering the following counties: Washington, Clarke, Monroe, Conecuh, Escambia, Covington, Mobile, and Baldwin.
Low Visibility to Create Hazardous Driving Conditions
According to the NWS, visibility could drop to a quarter-mile or less in some areas, especially along coastal and inland highways. Such dense fog can develop rapidly overnight as temperatures cool and moisture levels rise, particularly near waterways and low-lying terrain.
“Low visibility could make driving conditions hazardous,” the National Weather Service warned. “If driving, slow down, use your headlights, and leave plenty of distance ahead of you.”
Motorists traveling along major routes—including Interstate 65, U.S. 43, and U.S. 98—should use extra caution, as visibility may fluctuate quickly.
Safety Precautions for Drivers
The NWS urges residents to delay travel if possible until conditions improve. For those who must be on the road, following fog safety practices can greatly reduce the risk of collisions.
Key safety tips from the National Weather Service:
- Reduce Speed: Drive well below the speed limit and allow extra travel time.
- Use Low Beams: Activate low-beam headlights (not high beams) to enhance road visibility and ensure that your vehicle’s taillights are visible to others.
- Avoid High Beams: Bright lights can reflect off the fog, creating glare and worsening visibility.
- Maintain Distance: Keep a larger gap between your vehicle and the one ahead to allow for sudden stops.
- Stay in Your Lane: Use the painted lane markers as a visual guide to help maintain position on the road.
- If Visibility Nears Zero: Pull into a safe parking area such as a rest stop or business lot. Turn on hazard lights and remain parked until visibility improves.
- If No Parking Area Is Available: Move as far off the roadway as possible, engage your hazard flashers, and keep brake lights off to reduce the chance of rear-end collisions.
Conditions Expected to Improve by Mid-Morning
Meteorologists expect the fog to gradually lift after sunrise Saturday, with improving visibility and mild temperatures returning across coastal and inland Alabama.
However, fog may redevelop again Saturday night, particularly near rivers, bays, and coastal plains.
Residents are encouraged to check real-time updates from the National Weather Service Mobile office and local media outlets before heading out.
For the latest weather advisories, travel updates, and safety information across Alabama, continue following HonkNews.com for verified coverage and regional alerts.