Dense Fog Advisory Issued for South Central PA, Visibility Plummets

URGENT UPDATE: A dense fog advisory has been issued for South Central Pennsylvania as visibility drops to a dangerous 1/4 mile. The advisory, released by the National Weather Service at 10:28 p.m. on Tuesday, remains in effect until 8 a.m. on Wednesday, affecting Franklin, Dauphin, Schuylkill, Lebanon, Cumberland, Adams, York, and Lancaster counties.

Travelers are urged to exercise extreme caution as the weather service warns of hazardous driving conditions due to sharply reduced visibility. “Dense fog is ongoing or will develop shortly,” officials confirmed. Reports indicate that visibility has already plummeted to just a few hundred feet on Interstate 81 in Schuylkill County.

As this situation develops, it is critical for drivers to adjust their travel plans accordingly. The weather service advises allowing extra time to reach destinations and emphasizes the importance of safe driving practices. If you are on the road, here are essential tips to ensure safety:

– **Slow Down:** Reduce speed significantly to enhance reaction time.
– **Use Low-Beam Headlights:** Activate low-beam headlights to improve visibility and make your vehicle more visible to others.
– **Avoid High-Beams:** High-beam headlights create glare that further impairs visibility in foggy conditions.
– **Maintain Safe Distances:** Keep a generous distance from the vehicle ahead to prepare for sudden stops.
– **Stay in Your Lane:** Use lane markings to guide your positioning on the road.
– **Zero Visibility Protocol:** In extreme conditions, switch on hazard lights, pull into a safe area, and stop until visibility improves.

Officials stress that when a dense fog advisory is issued, it indicates widespread fog that can drastically reduce visibility, posing serious challenges for travel. If possible, consider postponing your trip until conditions improve.

Stay tuned for updates as conditions change. The safety of you and your passengers is paramount. Share this information with others to help keep everyone safe on the roads during this advisory period.