Commuters across western and central Wisconsin, as well as northeast Iowa, may face challenging and potentially hazardous travel conditions early Monday morning as dense fog sets in across the region.
The National Weather Service in La Crosse and the Quad Cities issued an alert for thick fog, with visibility dropping below one-quarter of a mile in some areas and localized pockets of near-zero visibility.
Where the Fog Will Be Most Intense
The dense fog is expected to affect low-lying areas, particularly river valleys along the Mississippi and Cedar rivers, which will be most impacted by the reduced visibility.
Cities such as La Crosse, Decorah, Dubuque, Cedar Rapids, and Prairie du Chien are among the areas expected to experience the worst of the fog conditions. The fog is expected to spread across the region, gradually expanding in coverage through sunrise before slowly lifting by mid-morning.
Driving Safety Tips for Affected Areas
Traveling in dense fog can be risky, and officials are urging drivers to take several precautions to ensure their safety during the commute. Motorists are advised to:
Slow down: Reduced visibility means drivers should drive slower than usual, especially in areas where the fog is thickest.
Use low-beam headlights: High beams will reflect off the fog and make visibility even worse, so it’s crucial to use low-beam headlights.
Avoid sudden maneuvers: Stepping on the brakes suddenly or making sharp turns could be dangerous when visibility is limited.
Do not turn around on highways: When visibility is at its worst, turning around on a highway is a risky maneuver because oncoming traffic will have little time to react to such sudden movements.
When Will Conditions Improve?
The fog is expected to begin lifting as temperatures rise later in the morning. As the sun comes up and temperatures warm, the fog should dissipate, improving visibility.
However, motorists should remain cautious and aware of the possibility of sudden changes in visibility until the conditions clear completely. Late morning will bring more favorable driving conditions, but it’s still important to stay alert for any sudden shifts in the weather.
Summary of Conditions for Monday Morning
Areas Affected: Western and central Wisconsin, northeast Iowa, and surrounding areas along the Mississippi and Cedar rivers.
Peak Time of Fog: Early Monday morning through approximately 8 a.m.
Visibility: Less than one-quarter of a mile in some areas, with localized pockets near zero.
Cities Impacted: La Crosse, Decorah, Dubuque, Cedar Rapids, Prairie du Chien, and other areas in the region.
Safety Recommendations: Slow down, use low-beam headlights, avoid sudden movements, and do not turn around on highways.
As conditions improve by mid-morning, drivers can expect clearer roads, but it’s important to remain vigilant and exercise caution until the fog completely clears. Stay safe and be prepared for potential delays during your morning commute.
