A report was issued from the National Weather Service on Monday at 6:12 a.m. for dense fog until 9 a.m. The alert is for Forsyth, Guilford, Davidson, Randolph, Stanly, Montgomery, Moore, Anson, Richmond, Scotland and Hoke counties.

“Areas of fog are ongoing across portions of the western and southern Piedmont. Visibilities are lowest across the southern Piedmont. The fog may be locally dense this morning, reducing visibilities on area roadways to as low as one quarter mile or less at times. Motorists may encounter these pockets of dense fog with rapidly changing visibilities,” states the NWS.

The NWS adds, “If driving, slow down and leave extra distance ahead of you in case a sudden stop is needed.”

Navigating fog: Safety tips by the NWS

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 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, activate your hazard lights and seek a safe spot, like a nearby business parking lot, to pull over and stop.

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 are not illuminated, reducing the risk of other drivers colliding with your stationary vehicle.

By adhering to these NWS recommendations, you can navigate foggy conditions more safely, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring your well-being.

Source: The National Weather Service