Nashville, TN – The National Weather Service (NWS) in Nashville has issued a Dense Fog Advisory for all of Middle Tennessee from midnight through 10 a.m. Monday, warning residents of visibility dropping below one-quarter mile in several areas. Motorists and early commuters are advised to use caution as fog blankets highways, valleys, and river corridors overnight.
Dense Fog Conditions Expected Across the Region
According to the National Weather Service, the fog will form quickly after midnight as skies clear and temperatures dip into the low 40s. The advisory covers major Middle Tennessee counties including Davidson, Montgomery, Rutherford, Sumner, Maury, and Williamson.
Areas most affected will include valleys, rural zones, and low-lying regions near waterways such as the Cumberland River and Duck River, where moisture tends to pool under calm wind conditions.
“Visibility may drop suddenly and significantly, especially during the early morning hours,” the NWS stated. “Motorists should expect travel delays during the Monday morning commute.”
Travel Impacts and Safety Precautions
Drivers traveling along I-24, I-40, I-65, and I-840 are urged to prepare for sudden visibility reductions and slick conditions on bridges and overpasses due to moisture accumulation.
Local emergency management officials advise motorists to:
- Slow down and use low-beam headlights in foggy conditions.
- Increase following distance to allow more reaction time.
- Avoid distractions such as phones or navigation adjustments while driving.
- Use fog lights if available, but avoid high beams, which can reflect light and reduce visibility further.
School transportation officials have also warned that buses and morning commuters in Nashville, Murfreesboro, Clarksville, and Franklin could face delays during early travel hours.
“Drivers should plan ahead and allow extra time,” said a representative from Tennessee Emergency Management Agency. “Visibility below a quarter mile can make even familiar routes dangerous.”
When the Fog Will Clear
Meteorologists expect the dense fog to linger through mid-morning, gradually lifting as the sun rises and temperatures warm into the 60s. By late morning, skies should clear, leading to a mild and dry afternoon with highs near 66°F.
However, patchy fog could persist longer in rural and river valley areas where the temperature inversion breaks more slowly.
The NWS also warns that fog may redevelop Monday night, particularly if winds remain calm and skies stay clear—a pattern typical for early fall mornings across Tennessee.
Background and Weather Context
This advisory comes during a period of typical autumn fog events in Middle Tennessee, often triggered by overnight cooling and high humidity following clear, calm evenings. These conditions allow air near the surface to reach its dew point, forming thick fog that can persist until late morning.
Experts note that October and November often bring some of the most dangerous fog-related driving conditions of the year in the region due to fluctuating temperatures and early school and work commutes.
What’s Next for Middle Tennessee Weather
After the fog clears, forecasters predict dry and pleasant weather across Middle Tennessee through midweek, with temperatures holding in the mid-60s to low 70s. Light winds will continue overnight, possibly allowing additional fog formation late Monday and Tuesday mornings.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed by following updates from the National Weather Service in Nashville and local traffic advisories.
What are your thoughts on the fog conditions this week? Share your experiences or travel updates in the comments below.
