HANFORD, Calif. – A thick veil of dense fog settled across the San Joaquin Valley early this morning, turning highways into hazy ribbons of glowing taillights. The National Weather Service in Hanford has issued a Dense Fog Advisory in effect until 10 AM PST, covering much of Kings, Fresno, Tulare, and Merced Counties — including Hanford, Visalia, and Fresno.
Visibility has already dropped to a quarter-mile or less in several locations, particularly along Highway 198, Highway 41, and rural stretches of I-5. Drivers are urged to slow down, use low-beam headlights, and leave extra distance between vehicles. The cool, stagnant air and high humidity are combining to create patchy fog banks that could shift quickly, catching early commuters off guard.
Once the fog burns away by late morning, skies turn mostly sunny across the valley with highs near 58°F and calm winds. The quiet weather continues through the weekend, bringing clearer skies and mild afternoons — ideal for early Thanksgiving travel and outdoor plans. Nights remain cool in the low 40s, with fog likely to redevelop again early next week as high pressure lingers.
Nationwide, however, a major pattern change is brewing. Meteorologists are monitoring a potential winter storm that could drop heavy snow (3–12 inches) across parts of the Rockies, Midwest, and Northeast between Nov. 25 and Dec. 3. Cooler air is also expected to reach the Gulf Coast and East Coast near Thanksgiving, signaling a winter-like setup for the final days of November.
Five-Day Outlook for Hanford, CA:
Fri: 58/41 – Morning fog, clearing to sun.
Sat: 58/41 – Partly cloudy, calm wind.
Sun: 60/41 – Mostly sunny, mild.
Mon: 58/41 – Fog early, then sunny.
Tue: 58/40 – Clear, light breeze.
