An updated weather alert was issued by the National Weather Service on Thursday at 4:04 a.m. for dense fog until 8 a.m. The alert is for Franklin, Hart and Elbert counties.
"A few locations in the lower Piedmont of Georgia and South Carolina, from the Lakelands to the Catawba River, will see patchy dense fog early this morning. Visibility will be one half mile or less at times. Drive with extra caution on area roadways, and be prepared for a sudden loss of visibility. Slow down, use low- beam headlights, and leave extra space between vehicles. The fog will become increasingly patchy around daybreak and is expected to have dissipated by 8 a.m.," according to the NWS.
Navigating fog: Safety tips by the NWS
If you must venture out in foggy conditions, keep these safety tips from the NWS in mind:
Reduce speed:
• Slow down and allocate extra travel time to reach your destination safely.
Visibility matters:
• Ensure your vehicle is visible to others by using low-beam headlights, which also activate your taillights. If available, employ your fog lights.
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 your 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 remaining in the correct lane.
Zero visibility protocol:
• In cases of near-zero visibility due to dense fog, initiate your hazard lights and locate a secure spot, such as a nearby business parking area, to pull over and come to a halt.
No 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 remain unlit, minimizing the chance of other drivers colliding with your stationary vehicle.
By adhering to these precautions from the NWS, you can navigate foggy conditions more safely, reducing the likelihood of accidents and ensuring your personal safety.
Source: The National Weather Service
