If you’re planning to be out and about tonight in western Missouri, you might want to rethink your plans—or at least drive with extra caution. A Dense Fog Advisory is in place, and it’s expected to stick around until 7:00 AM Thursday. The fog is rolling in fast, and it’s not messing around.
What’s Going On?
Picture this: one minute you’re driving along just fine, and the next, the world in front of you disappears into a cloud of mist. That’s what dense fog does, and tonight, visibility could drop to a quarter-mile or less. If you’ve ever driven in conditions like that, you know it’s not a fun time.
When and Where You’ll See It
- Starts: This evening, Wednesday, February 5
- Ends: Thursday, February 6, at 7:00 AM CST
- Affected Areas: Most of western Missouri, especially near rivers, lakes, and low-lying spots.
Why You Should Care
Let’s be real—driving in dense fog isn’t just tricky, it’s dangerous. The fog makes it hard to see the car in front of you, street signs, and potential obstacles. Combine that with speeding or distracted driving, and you’ve got a recipe for fender benders or worse.
Simple Tips to Stay Safe
If you absolutely have to drive, here’s how to get through it safely:
- Slow down. Speeding in fog is like walking blindfolded—it’s just not a good idea.
- Use low-beam headlights. High beams will just reflect off the fog and blind you even more.
- Keep your distance. Leave plenty of space between you and the car in front of you. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did.
- Stay focused. No texting, fiddling with the radio, or multitasking. Eyes on the road.
How It’ll Affect Your Night and Morning
- Late-night travel: If you’re heading out tonight, expect reduced visibility on highways like I-70 and I-49. Fog tends to get thickest in rural areas, especially near rivers and open fields.
- Morning commute: If you’re an early riser, give yourself extra time to get to work. The fog will likely still be hanging around when you wake up.
What To Do If the Fog Gets Really Bad
- Pull over. If you can’t see more than a few feet ahead, find a safe spot to pull off the road.
- Turn on your hazard lights. Let other drivers know you’re stopped.
- Follow the edge of the road. If you need guidance, use the right-hand edge as your marker.
By Morning, It Should Clear Up
The good news? The fog should lift by mid-morning Thursday. But don’t be in a rush to get on the road before it does. Give it time to clear and stay updated with any weather changes.
Final Thoughts: Take It Slow and Stay Safe
Foggy nights can be peaceful, but they’re not the time to test your driving skills. If you can avoid driving overnight, that’s your best bet. If you have to drive, take it slow, be cautious, and arrive in one piece.
Stay safe, Missouri—better late than never!
