Greenville, MS – The National Weather Service (NWS) in Jackson has issued a Dense Fog Advisory for parts of the Mississippi Delta and southeast Arkansas, warning that visibility could drop to one-quarter mile or less through 9 a.m. CST Saturday. Drivers are being urged to exercise caution during their morning commutes as the thick fog creates hazardous travel conditions across several major highways.
The Weather Alert and Affected Areas
According to the NWS Jackson office, the Dense Fog Advisory covers Ashley and Chicot Counties in Arkansas and Bolivar, Leflore, Sunflower, and Washington Counties in Mississippi.
Cities included in the advisory are Greenville, Greenwood, Cleveland, and Indianola, where meteorologists say visibility could fall rapidly in localized areas, especially near rivers, lakes, and rural low-lying regions.
“Visibility will be reduced to one-quarter mile or less in many locations,” the NWS stated. “Motorists should slow down, use low-beam headlights, and allow extra time to reach their destinations.”
Travel Hazards and Roadway Conditions
Officials have warned that dense fog may significantly impact early-morning travel along major routes such as Highways 82, 61, and 278. The reduced visibility could cause dangerous driving conditions, particularly for those traveling before sunrise or through open farmland areas where fog tends to settle.
Meteorologists advise drivers to:
- Reduce speed and maintain extra following distance.
- Avoid using high beams, as they reflect light off the fog.
- Stay alert for sudden stops or vehicles pulling off the roadway.
Traffic cameras across parts of the Delta have already shown low-visibility conditions, with some stretches nearly obscured by the fog. Authorities recommend postponing non-essential travel until later in the morning if possible.
Meteorological Factors Behind the Fog
Experts explain that cool overnight air combined with high humidity levels has created the ideal setup for radiation fog—a common early-November phenomenon in the Delta. As temperatures dropped overnight, moisture condensed near the surface, leading to dense fog formation before sunrise.
“This morning’s fog event is typical for early November,” said NWS meteorologist Caitlin Smith. “The combination of calm winds and moist ground helps fog develop rapidly before dawn and linger into the morning hours.”
The NWS expects gradual improvement by late morning as the fog lifts and temperatures rise into the 60s, though isolated patches of fog may linger longer in rural and low-lying areas.
Public Safety and Local Response
Local emergency agencies in Greenville and Greenwood have urged drivers to stay cautious and allow for slower travel times during the advisory period. Schools and early commuters have been reminded to remain vigilant, especially near intersections, bridges, and open fields where fog density can fluctuate unexpectedly.
Law enforcement officials across affected counties have also increased morning patrols to assist drivers and monitor any weather-related traffic incidents.
Ongoing Developments and Forecast Outlook
While the fog is expected to dissipate by mid- to late morning, meteorologists caution that similar fog patterns may reappear over the next few days, as high humidity and light winds continue.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and NWS updates for the latest advisories. Those traveling early Sunday morning should stay alert for potential patchy fog formation, particularly in river valleys and agricultural zones.
Conclusion
The Dense Fog Advisory serves as a reminder of the seasonal weather hazards common across the Mississippi Delta. With visibility dropping to one-quarter mile or less, motorists are urged to remain patient and drive safely until the fog lifts later this morning.
What are conditions like in your area this morning? Share your experiences or travel updates in the comments below.
