Sioux Falls, S.D. – Drivers across northwest Iowa and southwest Minnesota are navigating sharply reduced visibility early Thursday as dense fog drops sight distance to one-half mile or less along I-29, I-90 and US-59 until 9 a.m.
The most hazardous travel conditions are unfolding before sunrise, when traffic volume increases and visibility remains limited across portions of Osceola, Dickinson, O’Brien, Clay and Buena Vista counties in Iowa, along with Nobles, Rock and Jackson counties in Minnesota.
According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, a Dense Fog Advisory remains in effect until 9 a.m. CST. Visibilities of one-half mile or less are being reported in spots, creating hazardous driving conditions on major corridors including I-29 near Worthington and US-71 through Spirit Lake and Spencer.
Secondary highways and rural roads near Storm Lake, Sheldon, Luverne and Jackson may see even denser pockets, particularly in low-lying areas and near waterways. Sudden drops in visibility can occur within a few hundred feet, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions during the morning commute.
Motorists should slow down, use low-beam headlights and allow extra following distance. Avoid abrupt lane changes and be prepared for rapid changes in visibility.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve after sunrise as temperatures rise and fog begins to lift. Additional statements could be issued if dense fog lingers beyond midmorning across northwest Iowa and southwest Minnesota.
