Huntsville, Alabama – Drivers across North Alabama are being urged to slow down this morning as patchy freezing fog develops in parts of the Tennessee Valley, creating the potential for slick roads and sudden drops in visibility, especially in sheltered areas.
According to the National Weather Service in Huntsville, mist and fog formed early this morning, mainly near rivers, lakes, and low-lying locations. With temperatures hovering near or slightly below 32 degrees, any fog that settles on roadways, bridges, or sidewalks may freeze on contact, producing thin layers of ice. This can lead to black ice that is difficult to see, particularly before sunrise.
The greatest concern includes Huntsville, Decatur, Athens, Scottsboro, and surrounding rural areas, where visibility may drop quickly and icy patches could form on untreated roads. Pedestrians may also encounter slick sidewalks, stairs, and parking lots during the early morning hours.
Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time, increase following distance, and use low-beam headlights or fog lights instead of high beams. Sudden braking should be avoided on potentially icy surfaces. Residents heading outdoors should use caution while walking, as exposed surfaces may be icy.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve later this morning as temperatures rise above freezing and fog dissipates. Even so, drivers should remain alert for lingering slick spots through the early commute. Additional statements could be issued if freezing fog becomes more widespread across the region.
