Foggy Conditions in Northeast Kansas Prompt Safety Tips for Drivers
TOPEKA, Kan. — Dense fog blanketing northeast Kansas has significantly reduced visibility, with some areas reporting just a quarter-mile of clarity. Drivers are being urged to exercise caution as foggy conditions are expected to persist through Saturday, Dec. 28, according to KSNT Chief Stormtrack Meteorologist Matt Miller. Rising temperatures are anticipated to improve visibility over the weekend.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued guidance for navigating foggy conditions, emphasizing the importance of safety for drivers, mariners, and aviators. Key recommendations for driving in dense fog include:
- Reducing speed and allowing extra travel time.
- Using fog lights or low-beam headlights while ensuring taillights are on.
- Avoiding high-beam headlights, which can create glare.
- Maintaining additional distance between vehicles.
- Following road lines to stay in the correct lane.
- Activating hazard lights and pulling into a safe location if visibility becomes too poor.
- If pulling over isn’t possible, moving off the road as far as possible, engaging the emergency brake, and activating hazard lights for visibility.
According to the Kansas Department of Transportation, foggy conditions contributed to 4.34% of all weather-related crashes in 2023. Authorities are urging drivers to remain vigilant and prioritize safety during this period of reduced visibility.