A weather alert was issued by the National Weather Service on Monday at 3:37 a.m. for dense fog until 9 a.m. The alert is for Habersham, Stephens, Franklin, Hart and Elbert counties.
"Fog has formed in parts of northeast Georgia and is causing visiblity as low as a quarter mile in spots, especially near bodies of water. Visibility is likely to be variable, increasing and decreasing at times before finally dissipating after daybreak, perhaps as late as 9 to 10 a.m. in a few locations. Drivers may encounter areas of fog along roads and highways, and should be prepared for a sudden loss of visibility. Use low-beam headlights in fog, and leave extra space between vehicles," says the NWS.
Guidance from the NWS for navigating foggy conditions
If you must drive in foggy conditions, keep the following safety tips in mind:
Reduce speed:
• Slow down and allow extra travel time to reach your destination safely.
Visibility priority:
• Ensure your vehicle is visible to others by using low-beam headlights, which automatically activate your taillights. Utilize fog lights if your vehicle is equipped with them.
Avoid high-beams:
• Refrain from using high-beam lights, as they create glare, making it more difficult for you to see what’s ahead of you on the road.
Keep a safe distance:
• Keep a considerable following distance to account for sudden stops or shifts in traffic patterns.
Stay in your lane:
• Use the road's lane markings as a guide to staying in the correct lane.
Zero visibility protocol:
• In situations of near-zero visibility due to dense fog, activate your hazard lights and seek a secure location, such as a nearby business's parking lot, to pull over and come to a stop.
Limited parking options:
• If no designated parking area is available, pull your vehicle as far off the road as possible. Once stationary, deactivate all lights except the hazard flashers, engage the emergency brake, and release the brake pedal to ensure your tail lights are not illuminated, reducing the risk of other drivers colliding with your stationary vehicle.
By adhering to these NWS recommendations, you can navigate foggy conditions with greater safety, mitigating the risk of accidents and prioritizing your well-being.
Source: The National Weather Service
