Hattiesburg, MS – Dense fog settled across large portions of Mississippi, Alabama, and Louisiana early Tuesday, reducing visibility to one-quarter mile or less in several counties. Multiple National Weather Service offices issued advisories through mid-morning as a widespread fog layer developed across coastal and inland areas.
The low visibility created difficult travel conditions from Hattiesburg and Columbia to Mobile, Gulfport, Pascagoula, and other surrounding communities. Forecasters expect gradual improvement by late morning as temperatures rise and the fog lifts.
Dense Fog Advisories Issued Across the Region
Several National Weather Service offices, including NWS Jackson, NWS Mobile, and NWS New Orleans, issued Dense Fog Advisories after visibility levels dropped significantly overnight. According to early morning updates from NWS Jackson, dense fog formed rapidly across Marion, Lamar, and Forrest counties, with visibility remaining extremely low until 9 a.m. Tuesday.
In a detailed update, forecasters noted that “visibility may fall to one-quarter mile or less,” affecting both the Hattiesburg metro and surrounding towns, including Purvis and Lumberton.
Fog Expands Through Coastal Alabama and Southeast Mississippi
Further southeast, NWS Mobile reported expanding fog across portions of Mobile County, with an advisory in effect until 8 a.m. Tuesday. Inland counties in southeast Mississippi — Perry, George, Greene, and Stone — were also included in the alert.
Meteorologists explained that warm, saturated conditions along the coast are helping fog push inland, increasing the potential for dangerous visibility drops during the early commute.
Gulf Coast Communities Experience Widespread Hazards
Across the Mississippi Gulf Coast and Pearl River region, NWS New Orleans highlighted persistent dense fog expected to last until 9 a.m. Tuesday. Areas such as Biloxi, Gulfport, Pascagoula, Picayune, Bay St. Louis, Long Beach, and Waveland remained under the advisory.
Forecasters noted that both coastal and inland neighborhoods could see similar visibility challenges, especially along marshy routes and waterfront highways that frequently trap moisture overnight.
Major Highways Affected by Low Visibility
Travelers across the Deep South faced slow-moving traffic as fog thickened along several key highways. Affected corridors include:
- I-59
- I-10
- US-49
- US-98
- Highway 90
- Numerous rural and low-lying routes known for frequent fog formation
Transportation officials cautioned that sudden pockets of fog may appear without warning, especially near rivers, open fields, and forested areas.
Safety Measures Recommended for Drivers
Local authorities urged drivers to take precautions during the morning commute. To remain safe in these conditions, motorists should:
- Use low-beam headlights instead of high beams
- Slow down and increase following distance
- Avoid sudden braking or swerving
- Allow extra time for travel along bridges and inland backroads
Visibility is expected to gradually improve by mid to late morning as the fog lifts across Mississippi, Alabama, and Louisiana.
If you live in any of the affected areas, what are conditions like near you? Share your experiences in the comments below.
