TALLAHASSEE, FL – A dense fog advisory has been issued across Tallahassee and the Florida Panhandle this morning, creating hazardous travel conditions for residents. The National Weather Service warns that visibility has dropped to less than a quarter-mile in some areas, making driving treacherous. The advisory remains in effect until 10 a.m. Tuesday, with conditions expected to gradually improve as the morning progresses.
Fog Causes Dangerous Driving Conditions
The thick fog is affecting major highways, including Interstate 10, U.S. Highway 231, and U.S. Highway 98, where drivers are experiencing low visibility and slow-moving traffic. Cities impacted include Tallahassee, Panama City, Marianna, and Apalachicola, with reports of reduced sightlines across rural and urban areas alike.
Law enforcement agencies are urging drivers to exercise caution, advising them to reduce speed, increase following distance, and use low-beam headlights. High beams should be avoided, as they can reflect off the fog and worsen visibility. Motorists are also encouraged to allow extra travel time and remain alert for sudden slowdowns in traffic.
Why Is This Fog So Thick?
Fog like this is common in Florida during the spring months, when moist Gulf air meets cooler overnight temperatures, forming dense cloud cover at ground level. The humid air from the Gulf of Mexico contributes to prolonged fog events, especially in low-lying areas and near bodies of water.
Although the fog is expected to lift by mid-morning, some areas may continue to experience patchy fog and lingering moisture on roads, which could still make travel hazardous even after visibility improves. Drivers should remain cautious even after the advisory expires, as wet roadways and limited visibility in certain areas can still pose risks.
How to Stay Safe During Dense Fog Conditions
To minimize the risk of accidents and ensure safe travel, officials recommend the following precautions:
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Use Low-Beam Headlights: High beams will reflect off the fog and reduce visibility further. Keep your lights on low to help you see and be seen.
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Slow Down and Increase Following Distance: Reduced visibility means you’ll have less time to react. Maintain a slower speed and keep extra distance between you and other vehicles.
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Avoid Sudden Stops or Lane Changes: Abrupt movements can confuse other drivers who may not see you until the last second. Maintain a steady speed and drive smoothly.
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Stay Updated: Check real-time traffic and weather reports before heading out to avoid trouble spots.
What’s Next?
As the morning progresses, rising temperatures should help the fog dissipate, giving way to partly sunny skies and warm conditions. However, residents should remain aware that fog may return overnight and into early Wednesday morning, particularly in areas near rivers, lakes, and the coast.
Authorities will continue monitoring the situation and provide updates if conditions change. Until then, drivers are urged to stay cautious, drive carefully, and allow for extra time on their morning commutes.
