Hanford, CA – Dense fog is causing hazardous travel across the San Joaquin Valley this morning, with visibility dropping to dangerous levels along major roadways, according to the National Weather Service in Hanford. A Dense Fog Advisory remains in effect until 10 a.m. PST, with a high likelihood—between 60% and 70%—that dense fog will persist through the morning hours.
According to the agency, the fog formed rapidly overnight and is now impacting travel from Bakersfield northward toward Merced and Fresno. The Experimental Fog Severity Index highlights a high transportation risk, with visibility in some locations reduced to 800 feet or less. The thickest fog is pooled along the valley floor, especially near Highway 99, Interstate 5, and surrounding agricultural corridors.
Motorists are urged to slow down, use low-beam headlights, and leave extra distance between vehicles. Even short stretches of roadway may see abrupt visibility reductions, increasing the risk for collisions during early-morning commutes. Weather officials warn that drivers should anticipate delays and avoid using high beams, which worsen glare in fog.
The National Weather Service stresses that dense fog is one of the region’s most dangerous seasonal hazards, particularly during late fall and winter when rapid formation occurs before sunrise. Conditions are expected to gradually improve late this morning as the fog lifts and visibility returns to safe levels.
Residents and travelers moving through the San Joaquin Valley should remain alert for sudden changes in visibility and continue monitoring weather updates until the advisory expires.
