Memphis, TN – Drivers across West Tennessee and the Mid-South are being urged to use caution today as fog develops, reducing visibility and creating potentially hazardous road conditions through the afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Memphis, a Special Weather Statement was issued as rain falling on melting snowpack leads to thick, low-lying fog. Visibility has already dropped to one mile or less in some locations, with conditions expected to worsen in areas where snow and ice remain on the ground.
The weather service said the fog is being caused by moisture trapped near the surface as rain falls over existing snow and ice. Even if rainfall lightens, the fog could persist for several hours, especially in low-lying and rural areas across West Tennessee, North Mississippi, East Arkansas, and parts of the Mid-South region.
Road conditions may also deteriorate as rain continues to fall on compacted ice and snow, potentially creating slushy or slick pavement, particularly on secondary roads and bridges.
Motorists are advised to slow down, use low-beam headlights, and leave extra space between vehicles. Officials warn that using high beams can actually worsen visibility by reflecting off fog droplets. Reduced visibility combined with wet or slushy roads can significantly increase stopping distances.
The National Weather Service said it is continuing to monitor conditions and noted that a Dense Fog Advisory may be issued if visibility continues to decline.
Drivers traveling this afternoon and evening are encouraged to check local conditions before heading out and allow extra time to reach their destinations safely.
