Dense Fog Advisory Affects Multiple Counties in South Carolina

News Summary

A Dense Fog Advisory is in effect for several counties in South Carolina, including Orangeburg and Richland, creating hazardous driving conditions. Visibility is low, prompting safety warnings for commuters. Heavy rain has also led to flooding in Orangeburg, stressing the importance of caution on major routes like Interstate 26. Residents are advised to stay informed about the weather, particularly in flood-prone areas, as further advisories may be issued.

Dense Fog Advisory Affects Multiple Counties in South Carolina

Good morning, South Carolina! If you are waking up to a gray and misty Tuesday, you’re not alone. The National Weather Service has issued a Dense Fog Advisory for Northwestern Orangeburg, Central Orangeburg, Newberry, Kershaw, Lexington, Richland, and Sumter counties. This advisory is in effect until 10 a.m. today, so it’s wise to keep an eye on the road conditions.

What’s Happening?

As you step outside, you may notice some patchy fog lingering around, which might become more dense in certain areas, making it tricky to see while driving. Visibility has taken a hit, so it’s crucial for those behind the wheel to take a few precautions. The fog is expected to hang around for a few hours, creating locally dense conditions that can really limit how far you can see ahead.

Driving Tips for Foggy Conditions

Here are some important driving tips for navigating through fog:

Reduce speed – It’s better to take it slow.
Prioritize visibility – Be sure your headlights are on and functioning.
Avoid using high-beam headlights – This can reflect off the fog and make it harder to see.
Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
Stay in your lane – This is vital to avoid accidents.
Follow zero visibility protocol if conditions worsen.
Be mindful of limited parking options during dense fog situations.

Last Thursday, similar visibility issues arose, prompting another Dense Fog Advisory that lasted until 7:30 a.m. This was after rain caused some areas to experience visibility of less than half a mile, creating complications for morning commuters.

Flooding Risk in Orangeburg

But that’s not all! The weather woes don’t stop at fog; recent heavy rains have also led to significant flooding in parts of Orangeburg, especially around the North Fork of the Edisto River. The river has risen to a record level of 15.34 feet, spilling over its banks and causing disruptions to roads and nearby neighborhoods. If you’re traveling along major routes, particularly Interstate 26, be extra cautious due to the hazardous combination of fog and flooding conditions.

Weather Forecast Ahead

If you’re worried about the rain and fog drifting away soon, here’s the scoop: River levels are expected to remain above flood stage throughout this weekend, which might lead to evacuation warnings for some residents in flood-prone areas. The forecast for Saturday looks brighter, predicting mostly sunny skies with a comfortable high of 71°F. Don’t get too cozy though because by Sunday night, cloud cover will return with a 40% chance of showers, just in time for the start of the workweek.

As for next week, temperatures will fluctuate, dipping to a low of 62°F on Sunday night before warming up to 77°F on Veterans Day Monday. If you have any holiday events lined up, be prepared for potential rain as it may affect those plans.

Staying Safe and Informed

Officials recommend that residents, especially those living near flood-prone areas, stay tuned to any weather updates and heed any alerts that may come your way. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when nature throws a curveball your way!

Take care, stay safe, and drive safely out there, South Carolina!