Early Friday morning, a weather phenomenon known as "radiation fog" enveloped substantial parts of the southeastern United States. This occurrence spurred immediate action from the National Weather Service, which issued dense fog advisories for 78 counties in Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida. The advisories were a response to significantly reduced visibility, which, in certain areas, was reported to be close to zero.
During peak morning travel times, millions of drivers faced treacherous conditions. Authorities counseled motorists to reduce speed, activate headlights, and maintain an increased following distance to mitigate the risks posed by the fog that shrouded both highways and urban thoroughfares.
Despite its ominous moniker, radiation fog is unrelated to nuclear radiation. Meteorologists clarify that the term describes a type of fog that materializes overnight when the ground cools rapidly under clear skies, leading to moisture being trapped near the surface. Although not directly harmful, the dense fog can lower air quality by confining pollutants close to the ground.
Visibility dropped below a quarter-mile in several locations, prompting officials to caution against the perilous driving conditions. Major cities impacted by the fog included Augusta and Macon in Georgia; Columbia and Charleston in South Carolina; and areas within the northern Florida Panhandle. Further, marine advisories were issued for coastal waters and harbors, extending into the early afternoon.
The hazard of dense fog was highlighted by fatal accidents linked to low visibility. A recent collision involving multiple vehicles in Jupiter, Florida, resulted in one adult being hospitalized and the tragic death of a teenager. Authorities emphasized that fog-induced accidents are often abrupt and unpredictable.
Satellite images from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration revealed the extensive reach of the fog, covering parts of Alabama, Mississippi, North Carolina, and Tennessee. While not every state received formal fog advisories, the entire region was deemed high-risk due to prevailing moisture and stagnant air.
Anecdotal reports from Georgia residents on social media included claims of an unusual odor and residue associated with the fog, sparking speculation and demands for investigation. Officials have not verified any environmental contamination, reiterating that radiation fog is a typical climatic occurrence in the area during colder months.
Meteorologists explained that the fog formed following a period of high humidity and light winds, which allowed moisture to settle near the ground overnight. As the day progresses and the ground is warmed by sunlight, the fog is expected to dissipate. Most land-based advisories were scheduled to be lifted by mid-morning, while coastal alerts were projected to remain in place somewhat longer.
Health professionals advised that while the fog itself is not inherently dangerous, the entrapped pollutants could exacerbate respiratory issues such as asthma, particularly in vulnerable groups like children and the elderly. Until conditions ameliorated, residents were advised to limit outdoor activities.
Radiation fog is most prevalent in the Southeast during the autumn and winter months when extended nights and cooler temperatures foster the perfect environment for dense, ground-level fog formation. While this weather pattern is well-known to meteorologists, its sudden onset and the substantial reduction in visibility it causes continue to present significant dangers for motorists. Officials implored residents throughout the affected regions to heed fog warnings and take preventative measures as the situation gradually improved.
