Weather warning for dense fog in central North Carolina on Saturday morning

The National Weather Service issued a dense fog advisory at 6:51 a.m. Saturday until 9:30 a.m. The warning applies to Northern Jackson, Southern Jackson, Caldwell Mountains, Greater Caldwell, Burke Mountains, Greater Burke, McDowell Mountains, Eastern McDowell, Rutherford Mountains, Greater Rutherford, Polk Mountains, Eastern Polk, Oconee Mountains, Pickens Mountains and Greenville Mountains counties, as well as Rabun, Avery, Alexander, Iredell, Davie, Madison, Yancey, Mitchell, Swain, Haywood, Buncombe, Catawba, Rowan, Graham, Macon, Transylvania, Henderson, Cleveland, Lincoln, Gaston, Mecklenburg, Cabarrus, Union, Cherokee, York and Chester counties.

“Parts of the western Carolinas are expected to experience patchy fog this morning, reducing visibility to 1/4 mile or less. Motorists traveling on I-40 through western North Carolina, I-77 through the Piedmont, and other roads and highways in the region should be prepared for sudden deterioration in visibility. Slow down, use low beam headlights, and maintain a greater distance from other vehicles in dense fog. The fog should clear by 10 a.m.,” the NWS explains.

Navigating in the fog: NWS safety tips

If you must venture outside in foggy conditions, follow these safety tips from the NWS:

Reduce speed:

• Drive slower and allow more time for your journey to reach your destination safely.

Visibility is important:

• Make sure your vehicle is visible to others by turning on your low beam headlights, which will also activate your tail lights. If you have fog lights, use them.

Avoid high beam:

• Avoid using your high beam as it will cause glare and impair your vision on the road.

Maintain a safe distance:

• Maintain sufficient distance to allow for sudden stops or traffic changes.

Stay on your lane:

• Follow the road markings to stay in the correct lane.

Zero visibility protocol:

• In very thick fog where visibility is almost zero, it is best to first turn on your hazard lights and then simply drive to a safe place, such as the parking lot of a local business, and stop.

Limited parking:

• If no designated parking space is available, move your vehicle as far off the road as possible. Once you stop, turn off all lights except the hazard lights, apply the emergency brake, and release the brake pedal, ensuring your tail lights remain off. This will minimize the risk of other drivers colliding with your stationary vehicle.

By following these NWS precautions, you can navigate more safely in foggy conditions, reduce the likelihood of an accident, and ensure your personal safety.

Source: National Weather Service