A report from the National Weather Service was issued on Monday at 4:24 a.m. for dense fog until 8 a.m. The alert is for Inland Kenedy, Southern Hidalgo, Inland Willacy, Inland Cameron, Coastal Kenedy, Northern Hidalgo, Coastal Willacy and Coastal Cameron as well as Brooks County.

“Surface observations across Deep South Texas and the Rio Grande Valley indicate that isolated patches of dense fog are developing and persisting within the region at this time. Visibilities are being reduced to one half mile or less where this dense fog is forming. Motorists are encouraged to reduce speed, use low beam headlights, and avoid tailgating in any fog through the next few hours and especially during the morning commute to work and school,” states the NWS.

Guidance from the NWS for navigating foggy conditions

If you must venture out in foggy conditions, keep these safety tips from the NWS in mind:

Moderate your speed:

• Slow down and allocate extra time for your trip to reach your destination safely.

Visibility priority:

• Ensure your vehicle is visible to others by using low-beam headlights, which automatically activate your taillights. Utilize fog lights if your vehicle is equipped with them.

Avoid high-beams:

• Refrain from using high-beam headlights, as they create glare that impairs your visibility on the road.

Maintain safe gaps:

• 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 remaining in the correct lane.

Visibility near zero:

• 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 recommendations from the NWS, you can navigate foggy conditions more safely, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring your well-being.

Source: The National Weather Service