Texarkana, AR – The National Weather Service (NWS) in Shreveport has issued a Dense Fog Advisory for parts of southwest Arkansas, warning that visibility could fall to one-quarter mile or less through 9 a.m. CST Saturday. The advisory covers several counties and cities in the Texarkana region, where early morning travel may be especially dangerous.
The Weather Alert and Affected Areas
According to the NWS advisory, the Dense Fog Warning includes Sevier, Howard, Little River, Hempstead, Nevada, Miller, Lafayette, Columbia, and Union Counties. Cities under the alert include Texarkana, Hope, Magnolia, De Queen, and El Dorado.
The advisory went into effect early Saturday morning, with weather officials cautioning that fog formation under calm winds and high humidity could drastically reduce visibility across highways and rural routes.
Drivers traveling along Highways 67, 82, and 371 are urged to exercise extreme caution, as visibility may drop unexpectedly, especially in low-lying areas and river valleys.
Hazardous Driving Conditions Expected
Meteorologists warn that thick fog may create dangerous driving conditions, particularly for commuters and early-morning travelers. The combination of reduced visibility and slick roads increases the risk of traffic accidents during the advisory period.
“Motorists should slow down, use low-beam headlights, and leave extra distance between vehicles,” officials said. “Avoid sudden stops and pay attention to road markings to stay in your lane.”
The NWS recommends that drivers avoid unnecessary travel until visibility improves later in the morning. Commercial truck drivers and rural commuters are especially advised to plan for additional travel time.
Meteorological Conditions Behind the Fog
This morning’s dense fog developed as a result of light winds, high humidity, and overnight cooling, a combination common across southwest Arkansas during early November mornings. The clear skies allowed surface temperatures to drop quickly, creating condensation and fog formation near the ground.
Forecasters noted that patchy fog may persist longer in wooded and river-adjacent areas, such as near the Red River and Ouachita River basins, where cool air tends to settle.
Expected Timeline and Weather Improvement
The Dense Fog Advisory remains in effect until 9 a.m. CST, after which visibility is expected to gradually improve as sunlight and warming temperatures help lift the fog layer.
By late morning, most of the affected counties should see clearing skies and improved travel conditions, though isolated pockets of fog may linger longer in shaded and low-lying regions.
Public Safety and Travel Tips
Authorities urge residents to take extra precautions while traveling during foggy conditions. Recommended safety measures include:
- Reduce speed and use low-beam headlights.
- Avoid using high beams, which can reflect off fog and worsen visibility.
- Maintain extra following distance between vehicles.
- Use road reflectors and markings to help navigate safely.
- If visibility drops too low, pull over to a safe location and wait for conditions to improve.
These precautions are especially important for morning commuters, school buses, and delivery vehicles operating in affected areas.
Conclusion
The National Weather Service continues to monitor conditions closely as fog impacts travel across the Texarkana region. Drivers are encouraged to remain alert, follow all traffic advisories, and stay updated through local forecasts before heading out.
What are your travel conditions like this morning? Share your experiences and weather updates in the comments below.
