Eau Claire, WI – Dense fog will continue to affect portions of western and northwestern Wisconsin early Wednesday, creating hazardous travel before sunrise.
According to the National Weather Service in the Twin Cities, a Dense Fog Advisory is in effect until 9 AM Wednesday, covering Barron, Polk, Rusk, Chippewa, Dunn, Eau Claire, Pepin, Pierce, and St. Croix counties. Visibility may drop to less than one mile across the region.
Forecasters note that freezing fog is also possible, which could leave a thin glaze of ice on untreated roads, sidewalks, bridges, and elevated surfaces. Commuters traveling through Eau Claire, Chippewa Falls, Menomonie, Hudson, Rice Lake, and surrounding smaller communities may encounter slick patches in addition to reduced visibility.
According to the NWS, the advisory replaces a previously issued fog alert that was cancelled and reissued as conditions worsened earlier than expected. Fog expanded overnight under light winds and clear skies, allowing moisture to settle near the surface.
Drivers should expect quick changes in visibility along major routes, including I-94, US-53, WI-29, and local highways. Areas near river valleys—particularly along the Chippewa, St. Croix, and Red Cedar rivers—may see the densest fog.
Conditions are expected to improve gradually after 9 AM as temperatures climb above freezing and fog begins to dissipate. Until then, motorists are urged to slow down, use low-beam headlights, and leave extra space between vehicles.
Anyone traveling early should allow additional travel time and remain alert for icy spots caused by freezing fog.
