California – Tail lights blur and intersections vanish as dense fog settles across the Sacramento Valley early, shrinking visibility and forcing drivers to slow well below the speed limit. The winter pattern remains locked in, bringing hazardous mornings before calmer afternoons take over.
According to the National Weather Service in Sacramento, widespread dense fog is developing across the metro area and nearby valleys, with visibility dropping to around a half mile or less in spots. Calm winds and saturated air have allowed fog to thicken, especially near rivers, open fields, and low-lying roadways.
The greatest travel impacts are expected along I-5, Highway 99, and surface streets during the early commute. Sudden visibility changes can occur near on-ramps and overpasses. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, use low-beam headlights, and leave extra following distance through mid-morning.
Fog gradually lifts late this morning, giving way to sunshine and milder conditions. Afternoon highs reach the low 60s, offering a pleasant winter break once visibility improves. Tonight, fog redevelops after midnight as temperatures fall near 40, setting up another slow start Saturday.
Saturday turns mostly sunny by late morning, with highs near 61. Conditions remain dry and stable, though fog returns again late Saturday night. Sunday follows a similar pattern, starting gray before partial sunshine pushes highs near 60.
MLK Day Monday looks favorable overall. Mostly sunny skies dominate, with highs near 59 and improved travel conditions by afternoon. Even so, patchy fog may linger during early hours, especially near the Sacramento River.
Looking ahead, dry weather continues into midweek, though recurring fog remains a concern. Plan extra time for morning travel and expect clearer roads by midday. Did fog slow your commute today? Let us know what you’re seeing.
Five-Day Outlook for Sacramento, California
- Today: Dense fog early, then sunny, high near 63
- Saturday: Mostly sunny after fog, high near 61
- Sunday: Partly sunny, high near 60
- MLK Day Monday: Mostly sunny, high near 59
- Tuesday: Patchy fog early, partly sunny, high near 59
