Jackson, Ky. – Drivers across eastern Kentucky are waking up to dangerously dense fog blanketing valleys from Irvine to Pikeville, with visibility plummeting to less than a quarter-mile in some areas before sunrise Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Jackson, clear skies, light winds, and lingering humidity have triggered rapid fog development along valley floors. The thickest conditions are expected along key routes including U.S. 25, U.S. 80, and KY-119, especially near London, Somerset, Hazard, and Pikeville. This dense fog is expected to persist through at least 9 a.m. EDT, posing serious travel hazards.
Motorists should reduce speed, use low beam headlights, and allow extra stopping distance on their morning commute. School bus routes and rural roads are especially at risk for sudden drops in visibility. Emergency management officials recommend avoiding unnecessary travel until the fog lifts.
This event comes as the region sees typical summer humidity meeting early morning clear skies—a recipe for dense, valley-specific fog that can catch drivers off-guard. Similar events have caused traffic delays and minor accidents in past summers.
Dense fog will gradually lift after sunrise, but pockets may linger in sheltered valleys through mid-morning. Additional fog advisories may be issued if conditions persist.
