California’s Central Valley begins the morning wrapped in thick gray fog, swallowing headlights and shrinking visibility across Hanford. Taillights glow faintly through the haze, and familiar roads feel suddenly uncertain. Travel conditions change block by block as winter fog tightens its grip.
According to the National Weather Service, a Dense Fog Advisory remains in effect for the San Joaquin Valley through late morning. Visibility has dropped to near a quarter mile or less in spots, especially near open farmland and low-lying roads. Calm winds and saturated air allow fog to linger longer than usual.
Temperatures sit near the upper 30s early, adding to the hazard. Cold pavement combined with heavy moisture can leave roads slick, particularly on bridges and rural routes. Drivers along Highway 198, Highway 43, and nearby county roads should slow down and use low beams.
As the day progresses, fog gradually thins. Sunshine breaks through by late morning, pushing highs into the mid-60s. Conditions improve quickly once visibility opens, offering a quiet and mild winter afternoon across Kings County.
Saturday and Sunday stay partly sunny and seasonable, with highs in the mid-60s. Nights remain cool and calm, allowing patchy fog to redevelop during early morning hours. The risk returns each day near sunrise, especially heading into early February.
By Monday and Tuesday, a similar pattern holds. Mild afternoons contrast with chilly, fog-prone mornings. While snow and Arctic cold dominate much of the country, the Central Valley’s winter danger remains low visibility and sudden travel slowdowns.
Plan extra time for morning drives, keep headlights on low beam, and leave space between vehicles. More advisories could be issued if fog thickens again.
Five Day Outlook for Hanford, CA
- Today: Fog early, then sunny, high near 65
- Saturday: Partly sunny, high near 65
- Sunday: Partly sunny, high near 64
- Monday: Partly sunny, high near 60
- Tuesday: Partly sunny, high near 62
