MERCED, Calif. – A Dense Fog Advisory is in effect for parts of the central San Joaquin Valley from 4 a.m. to 10 a.m. PST Thursday, as calm overnight conditions set the stage for another round of dense Tule fog with visibility dropping below one-quarter mile.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, the advisory includes areas around Merced, Madera, Los Banos, Dos Palos, and Mendota. Forecasters caution that fog formation will be strongest in low-lying rural zones and along waterways, where moisture and light winds will allow thick fog to settle through sunrise.
“Drivers should prepare for rapidly changing visibility and slow travel during the morning commute,” forecasters said. The combination of fog and cool temperatures could also lead to slick spots on bridges and overpasses.
Motorists along Highways 99, 152, and 233 should use low-beam headlights, avoid sudden braking, and leave extra distance between vehicles. The fog is expected to lift by midmorning, giving way to mostly sunny skies and mild afternoon temperatures in the mid- to upper 60s.
More patchy fog is possible again late Thursday night and early Friday as calm weather persists.
