A dense fog advisory was released by the National Weather Service on Thursday at 2:46 a.m. in effect until 10 a.m. The advisory is for Coastal Levy and Inland Levy as well as Pinellas, Polk, Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, Sumter, Hardee, Highlands, DeSoto, Charlotte and Lee counties.
Navigating fog: Safety tips by the National Weather Service
If a dense fog advisory is issued for your area, it means that widespread dense fog has developed and visibility often drops to just a quarter-mile or less. These conditions can make driving challenging, so exercise extreme caution on the road, and if possible, consider delaying your trip.
If you must venture out in foggy conditions, keep these safety tips from the National Weather Service in mind:
Reduce speed:
Slow down and allocate extra travel time to reach your destination safely.
Visibility priority:
Ensure your vehicle is visible to others by using low-beam headlights, which also activate your taillights. If available, employ your fog lights.
Avoid high-beams:
Refrain from using high-beam headlights, as they create glare that impairs your visibility on the road.
Keep your distance:
Keep a considerable following distance to account for sudden stops or shifts in traffic patterns.
Stay in your lane:
Use the road’s lane markings as a guide to staying in the correct lane.
Zero visibility strategy:
In cases of near-zero visibility due to dense fog, initiate your hazard lights and locate a secure spot, such as a nearby business parking area, to pull over and come to a halt.
Limited parking options:
If no designated parking area is available, pull your vehicle as far off the road as possible. Once stationary, deactivate all lights except the hazard flashers, engage the emergency brake, and release the brake pedal to ensure your tail lights remain unlit, minimizing the chance of other drivers colliding with your stationary vehicle.
By adhering to these precautions from the National Weather Service, you can navigate foggy conditions more safely, reducing the likelihood of accidents and ensuring your personal safety.