California’s Central Valley disappears into a gray blur this morning as headlights glow softly through thick fog. Taillights fade fast, and familiar roads feel suddenly uncertain as visibility drops to near zero in places.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, a Dense Fog Advisory remains in effect through midday across much of the San Joaquin Valley. Visibility ranges from a quarter mile down to just 200 feet or less, creating hazardous driving conditions during the morning commute.
The advisory covers a wide stretch of Central California, including Hanford, Visalia, Fresno, Merced, and Bakersfield. Major travel corridors are affected, including Interstate 5 and State Routes 99, 41, 43, 46, 58, 59, 140, 152, 165, 180, and 198. Fog pools in low-lying areas and along rural highways, where sudden whiteout conditions can appear without warning.
Drivers are urged to slow down, use low-beam headlights, and increase following distance. Chain-reaction crashes are a risk during dense fog events, especially near intersections and on high-speed routes. If visibility drops sharply, delay travel when possible.
Temperatures hover near 40 degrees early, helping the fog cling stubbornly through the morning hours. Improvement is expected by late morning as clouds lift and weak sunshine breaks through. By afternoon, conditions feel calmer, with highs climbing into the low 60s.
Looking ahead, fog chances remain a concern early in the week during overnight and early morning hours, especially Tuesday. Clearer skies and warmer afternoons arrive midweek, with highs pushing into the mid-60s by Wednesday and even warmer air possible later in the week.
For now, patience is key. Slow down, stay alert, and plan extra time until the fog finally loosens its grip.
Five-Day Outlook for Hanford, California
Monday: Morning fog, then mostly sunny, high near 61, low around 43
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 64, low around 43
Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 65, low around 44
Thursday: Sunny, high near 68, low around 48
Friday: Partly sunny, high near 67, low around 46
How thick is the fog where you’re driving this morning?
