NWS Issues Dense Fog Advisory for Coastal Washington

Drivers in coastal Washington and the Snohomish River Valley face hazardous travel conditions from dense fog, with the National Weather Service (NWS) warning that visibility could fall to one-quarter mile or less. The advisory remains in effect until 1 p.m., and officials recommend reducing speed and increasing following distances to lower the risk of collisions.

According to the NWS, the thickest fog is concentrated along coastal areas and in the Snohomish River Valley. The agency warns that limited visibility can make driving difficult and advises motorists to avoid unnecessary trips when conditions become dangerous.

The NWS described the expected conditions as follows: "Visibility one quarter mile or less in dense fog," can be anticipated according to the NWS. "The densest fog is mainly focused along the coastal areas and in the Snohomish river valley."

The advisory highlights the danger posed by sudden changes in visibility, particularly when drivers cannot see vehicles, road markings or obstacles far enough ahead to react safely.

The NWS also issued guidance for people who must travel while the fog persists. Its recommendations include driving more slowly, allowing additional time to reach destinations and using low-beam headlights so vehicles remain visible to other motorists.

The agency emphasized the risks associated with improper lighting and insufficient space between vehicles: "Low visibility could make driving conditions hazardous," comments the NWS. "If driving, slow down, use your headlights, and leave plenty of distance ahead of you."

Motorists should avoid high-beam headlights because the resulting glare can further reduce visibility. Drivers should also follow road markings to maintain their lane and leave enough room to respond to sudden stops or changes in traffic.

If fog becomes so thick that visibility approaches zero, the NWS recommends switching on hazard lights and pulling into a safe location, such as a parking lot or driveway. If no safe off-road location is available, drivers should move as far onto the roadside as possible, stop, engage the emergency brake and leave hazard lights flashing.

The NWS advises drivers in these extreme conditions to turn off other vehicle lights after stopping, including lights that could make the vehicle appear to be moving to approaching motorists. The dense fog advisory is scheduled to remain active until 1 p.m.