Jacksonville, Florida – Dense smoke is expected to sharply reduce visibility across southeast Georgia overnight, creating dangerous driving conditions from late evening through the Friday morning commute. Visibility could drop to a quarter mile or less, especially on rural highways and low-lying roads, increasing the risk of crashes and sudden slowdowns.
According to the National Weather Service in Jacksonville, a Dense Smoke Advisory is in effect from 10 p.m. Thursday until noon Friday for Wayne and Brantley counties, while Clinch and Echols counties remain under the advisory through the same end time. The smoke is expected to thicken overnight, with the lowest visibility occurring between midnight and 9 a.m.
Communities including Jesup, Nahunta, Hoboken, Waynesville, Homerville, and Statenville are most at risk. Drivers along U.S. 301, U.S. 84, and local county roads should prepare for rapidly changing visibility, particularly near wooded areas where smoke can settle close to the ground.
Officials warn that headlights may reflect off dense smoke, further reducing visibility. Drivers are urged to slow down, use low-beam headlights, and allow extra distance between vehicles. Those with respiratory conditions should remain indoors and limit exposure to smoky air.
The advisory remains in place until noon Friday, when conditions are expected to gradually improve. Additional advisories could be issued if smoke lingers or spreads into nearby counties.
