Dodge City, Kansas – Drivers across southwest Kansas face sudden drops in visibility early Wednesday, with some highways turning hazardous before the morning commute peaks.
According to the National Weather Service in Dodge City, dense fog is expected to reduce visibility to one-quarter mile or less through 11 a.m. Wednesday. A Dense Fog Advisory covers areas generally between US-83 and US-183, including Dodge City, Garden City, Ulysses and Liberal.
The most significant impacts are likely along US-50, US-400 and US-283, where open terrain can allow fog to rapidly thicken in low-lying stretches. Visibility may fall below 1,320 feet with little warning, especially before sunrise. That level of visibility can make it difficult to see brake lights, stop signs and slowed traffic ahead in time to react safely.
School buses and early morning freight traffic along US-83 could encounter patchy near-zero visibility at times. Local law enforcement urges drivers to slow well below posted speed limits and allow extra stopping distance. Use low-beam headlights only; high beams can reflect off the fog and further reduce visibility.
Motorists should avoid passing unless absolutely necessary and be prepared for sudden slowdowns near intersections and rural crossroads. If visibility drops sharply, reduce speed gradually and use hazard lights if needed to alert drivers behind you.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve late Wednesday morning as temperatures rise and winds increase. However, pockets of dense fog may linger in isolated areas beyond 11 a.m. Drivers should monitor updated statements in case the advisory is extended.
