Ellensburg, WA – Drivers across Kittitas Valley are being urged to use caution Sunday as freezing fog reduces visibility and creates potentially hazardous travel conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, Oregon, a Freezing Fog Advisory remains in effect until 2 p.m. PST Sunday, impacting much of Kittitas Valley, including Ellensburg and Thorp. Visibility could drop to half a mile or less, especially during periods of dense fog.
Forecasters say the fog is accompanied by freezing temperatures, increasing the risk of slick road surfaces and sudden visibility changes. Travel impacts are expected to be most noticeable along Interstate 90 and Interstate 82, where fog may be thicker in low-lying and rural areas.
In addition to the fog advisory, an Air Stagnation Advisory is in effect for the region and will remain active until 4 p.m. PST Tuesday. Weather officials say a temperature inversion is trapping pollutants near the surface, leading to poor air quality, particularly for sensitive groups.
People with respiratory conditions, older adults, and children are advised to limit prolonged outdoor activity. State air quality agencies are also recommending that residents avoid outdoor burning and limit residential wood burning where possible.
Drivers are encouraged to slow down, use headlights, and maintain extra distance between vehicles while traveling in fog. Sudden drops in visibility are possible, even over short distances.
Residents are urged to monitor local forecasts and check with local air quality agencies for any restrictions or health advisories as stagnant conditions persist into the new week.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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