The National Weather Service (NWS) in Columbia, South Carolina, issued a dense fog advisory early Wednesday morning, warning residents in parts of Georgia and South Carolina about hazardous driving conditions. The advisory, updated at 3:14 a.m., affects Kershaw, Lexington, and Richland counties in South Carolina, as well as Richmond County in Georgia.
The advisory remains in effect until 10 a.m. and warns of visibility dropping to one-quarter mile or less in dense fog across Aiken, Chesterfield, Kershaw, Lexington, and Richland counties in South Carolina.
“Low visibility could make driving conditions hazardous,” the NWS cautioned. Drivers are advised to slow down, use headlights, and maintain a safe distance between vehicles to avoid accidents.
Driving Hazards in Fog
Dense fog significantly reduces visibility, making travel dangerous. The NWS explains that a dense fog advisory is issued when widespread fog reduces visibility to one-quarter mile or less, creating unsafe conditions on the road.
Motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution and follow these safety measures to stay safe during dense fog:
- Slow Down: Allow extra time to reach your destination. Reducing speed minimizes the chances of collisions and gives drivers more time to react to sudden changes in traffic patterns.
- Use Low-Beam Headlights: High-beam lights cause glare, making it harder to see in foggy conditions. Low-beam headlights also activate taillights, improving your visibility to other drivers. If your vehicle has fog lights, use them.
- Maintain Distance: Leave plenty of space between your car and the one in front of you to allow for sudden stops or changes in the flow of traffic.
- Follow Road Markings: Use the lines on the road as a guide to ensure you remain in the correct lane.
In cases where visibility becomes dangerously low, drivers are advised to pull off the road:
- Turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Move your vehicle to a safe location, such as a parking lot or driveway, if possible.
- If stopping along the road, pull over as far as possible. Turn off all lights except hazard flashers, set the emergency brake, and release the brake pedal to avoid confusing other drivers with illuminated tail lights.
Regional Impact
The dense fog advisory highlights the weather challenges faced by residents in the Midlands region and nearby areas. Dense fog often occurs when the air is saturated, and temperatures drop overnight, creating moisture near the ground.
The NWS frequently issues these advisories during late fall and winter months when temperature fluctuations and humidity are common. Residents are reminded to stay informed about weather conditions by checking updates from local meteorologists or the NWS.
By following recommended precautions and staying vigilant, drivers can navigate foggy conditions safely and reduce the risk of accidents. The advisory is expected to lift by mid-morning as temperatures rise and the fog dissipates.
For additional weather updates or emergency alerts, visit the NWS website or follow them on social media. Stay safe and exercise caution while traveling during dense fog.
