UPDATE: A critical weather alert has been issued for parts of Pennsylvania as dense fog sweeps through the region, significantly reducing visibility. The National Weather Service reported at 8:27 p.m. on October 19, 2023, that the fog will persist until 12:30 a.m. on October 20, affecting Elk, Clearfield, Cambria, and Somerset counties.
Visibility is dropping to less than 0.25 miles, creating hazardous conditions, especially for drivers traversing higher terrains. The weather service warns, “Clouds are touching the tops of the ridges this evening, making a fog that is reducing visibilities.” This situation poses an immediate threat for those on the road, with fog expected to settle into valleys, further complicating travel.
For those who must navigate these conditions, the National Weather Service emphasizes several safety tips to reduce the risk of accidents:
– **Moderate your speed:** Slow down significantly to adapt to reduced visibility.
– **Visibility priority:** Use low beams instead of high beams, which can reflect off the fog and worsen visibility.
– **Maintain safe gaps:** Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and others.
– **Stay in your lane:** Be mindful of lane markings, which may be obscured.
– **Zero visibility strategy:** If visibility drops to zero, safely pull over and wait for conditions to improve.
– **Limited parking options:** Be aware that roadside parking may be limited due to fog.
The fog is not expected to lift overnight and will only begin to improve slowly on Friday morning, creating a prolonged period of dangerous driving conditions. Travelers are urged to stay informed and exercise caution during this weather event.
This alert serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of fall weather. As fog blankets the region, residents and commuters must remain vigilant. Stay tuned for updates as conditions evolve, and prioritize safety above all when venturing out tonight.
