The National Weather Service issued a report at 6:19 a.m. on Thursday for dense fog until 9 a.m. for Dillon, Florence and Marion counties.
“Patchy dense fog has developed across the I-95 corridor and Pee Dee region. The fog may become locally dense, reducing visibilities on area roadways,” says the weather service.
The weather service adds, “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.
Guidance from the weather service for navigating foggy conditions
If you must drive in foggy conditions, keep the following safety tips in mind:
Reduce speed:Slow down and allocate extra travel time to reach your destination safely.
Visibility matters:Ensure your vehicle is visible to others by using low-beam headlights, which also activate your taillights. If you have fog lights, use 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.
Maintain safe gaps:Leave a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you to account for sudden stops or changes in the traffic pattern.
Stay in your lane:Use the road’s lane markings as a guide to remaining in the correct lane.
Zero visibility protocol:In situations of near-zero visibility due to dense fog, activate your hazard lights and seek a secure location, such as a nearby business’s parking lot, to pull over and come to a stop.
No parking options:If no parking area is available, pull your vehicle as far to the roadside as possible. Once stationary, turn off all lights except the hazard flashers, engage the emergency brake, and release the brake pedal to ensure your tail lights are not illuminated, reducing the risk of other drivers colliding with your stationary vehicle.
By adhering to these weather service precautions, you can navigate foggy conditions more safely, reducing the likelihood of accidents and ensuring your personal safety.
