California – Headlights fade into a gray wall across the San Joaquin Valley this morning as dense fog settles over Central California. Visibility drops suddenly, taillights blur, and familiar roads feel unfamiliar during the early commute.
According to the National Weather Service, a Dense Fog Advisory remains in effect until 10 a.m. for Hanford and surrounding valley communities. Visibility may fall to one-quarter mile or less, with rapid changes possible as fog forms unevenly across highways and rural roads.
Travel impacts are already significant. Drivers along Highway 198, Highway 43, and nearby farm roads may encounter sudden whiteouts. Calm winds allow fog to linger, especially in low-lying areas where moisture pools before sunrise. Slow speeds, extended following distance, and low-beam headlights are essential.
Fog begins to thin later this morning as clouds lift and temperatures rise into the low 50s. Even so, patchy dense fog may redevelop tonight and early Saturday, repeating the cycle for weekend travelers. Those leaving early should plan extra time and remain alert for sudden visibility drops.
Looking ahead, the pattern turns more unsettled. By Sunday into early next week, rain chances increase across the valley. While no snow is expected locally, wet roads combined with fog could heighten travel risks. Meteorologists are also monitoring a stronger storm system that could impact Christmas Travel, bringing steadier rain and possible thunderstorms by midweek.
For now, the main concern remains visibility. Pedestrians, cyclists, and farm equipment operators are harder to see during dense fog episodes. Drivers should stay off cruise control, watch road edges, and avoid passing unless absolutely necessary.
Conditions improve later today, but caution remains key through the weekend. Fog season has arrived, and mornings like this may become more common.
Are you driving through the valley this morning? Let us know where fog is thickest and how travel conditions look near you.
Five-Day Outlook for Hanford, California:
Saturday: Patchy fog early, high near 56
Sunday: Slight chance of rain, high near 61
Monday: Slight rain chance, high near 58
Tuesday: Rain likely late, high near 58
Wednesday: Rain, high near 55
