Residents of Columbus and Newnan, Georgia, woke up to thick fog Tuesday morning, making travel conditions dangerous across the region. The National Weather Service issued a Dense Fog Advisory lasting until 10 a.m. EDT, warning that visibility could drop to as low as one-quarter mile in some areas.
Drivers in Muscogee, Coweta, and surrounding counties have been urged to use extreme caution while on the road, as the heavy fog significantly reduces visibility on highways and local streets. Cities including Peachtree City, Fort Benning, Griffin, and Stockbridge are also impacted by the advisory.
Morning Commute at Risk
With visibility deteriorating, morning commuters are facing difficult driving conditions. Major highways, including Interstate 185, U.S. Highway 27, and Georgia Route 16, are experiencing slowed traffic due to the fog. Authorities warn that the combination of low visibility and morning rush-hour congestion increases the risk of accidents.
Local law enforcement and emergency responders are urging drivers to reduce their speed, use low-beam headlights, and leave extra space between vehicles to prevent collisions. The risk is especially high in areas with heavy tree cover, where fog tends to linger longer.
Why Is Fog So Thick This Morning?
This dense fog formation is a result of warm, moist air mixing with cooler overnight temperatures, a common occurrence in Georgia during spring. While the fog is expected to lift by mid-morning, some areas could experience lingering moisture on the roads, particularly in shaded or low-lying regions.
As the sun rises and temperatures climb, visibility will gradually improve. However, residual moisture on road surfaces could still pose hazards, especially in construction zones and on bridges where slick conditions can develop.
How to Stay Safe on the Roads
With the advisory in effect until mid-morning, safety remains a priority. Here’s how you can protect yourself and others while driving in foggy conditions:
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Use Low-Beam Headlights: High beams will reflect off the fog and reduce visibility even further. Keep your low beams on to improve your field of vision.
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Slow Down and Increase Following Distance: Reduced visibility means slower reaction times. Give yourself extra space to brake if needed.
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Avoid Sudden Stops and Lane Changes: Abrupt movements can confuse other drivers who may not see you until the last second. Maintain a steady speed and drive cautiously.
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Check Traffic Updates Before Heading Out: Stay informed about road closures, delays, and accident reports to avoid potential trouble spots.
What’s Next?
As the fog clears later in the morning, sunshine and warmer temperatures are expected to dominate the rest of the day. However, drivers should remain cautious during the early hours, as foggy conditions can return in the coming days, particularly in low-lying areas and near bodies of water.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as needed. Residents should stay tuned to local weather alerts and exercise caution until visibility fully improves.
