A report was issued from the National Weather Service on Saturday at 5:32 a.m. for dense fog until 9 a.m. for Dillon, Florence, Marion and Horry counties.
“Patchy dense fog will impact the area through early morning, reducing visibilities to one-quarter mile at times,” according to the weather service.
The weather service states, “If driving, slow down and leave extra distance ahead of you in case a sudden stop is needed.”
This alert is in effect until 9 a.m.
Fog safety: Tips from the weather service for safe travels
If you must venture out in foggy conditions, keep these safety tips from the weather service in mind:
Moderate your speed:Slow down and allow extra travel time to reach your destination safely.
Visibility matters: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 lights, as they create glare, making it more difficult for you to see what’s ahead of you 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 extremely dense fog where visibility is near zero, the best course of action is to first turn on your hazard lights, then simply pull into a safe location such as a parking lot of a local business, and stop.
No 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 weather service recommendations, you can navigate foggy conditions more safely, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring your well-being.