Harrisburg, Pa. – A dense fog settled over much of central and western Pennsylvania early Tuesday, creating hazardous driving conditions for commuters on major routes such as I-80, I-99, and the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
Drivers in cities including Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, Lancaster, and State College were greeted with near-zero visibility, and conditions are expected to remain dangerous until at least 9 a.m.
Details of the Fog Conditions
The National Weather Service offices in State College and Pittsburgh reported that the dense fog developed overnight, reducing visibility to a quarter mile or less in some areas.
The heaviest fog is affecting regions from Potter County and the Northern Tier, through Centre, Blair, Cambria, and Juniata counties, and extending down to Lancaster and York. Eastern Ohio and northern West Virginia are also impacted, particularly areas such as Belmont and Greene counties, and the Morgantown area.
Roadways, bridges, and rural intersections remain particularly hazardous due to the fog, which has made visibility nearly impossible in certain stretches of the highways.
Travel and Safety Tips
Travelers in affected areas are urged to exercise caution:
Allow extra time: Ensure you leave early to account for slower driving conditions.
Reduce speed and increase following distance: Fog can make stopping distances longer, so drive slowly and keep more space between you and the car in front of you.
Use low-beam headlights: High beams can reflect off the fog, making visibility worse. Use low beams to improve your ability to see.
Prepare for sudden drops in visibility: Be ready for changes in visibility, especially in valleys and near rivers where fog tends to be denser.
If fog is too thick, pull off the road safely: If you can’t see, it’s safer to pull over and wait for conditions to improve rather than risk driving in dangerous visibility.
Typical July Weather Conditions
This dense fog is a common occurrence during humid July mornings in Pennsylvania, especially after rain and with clear skies overnight. Though the conditions should improve by 9 a.m., pockets of fog may still persist in low-lying areas and rural regions.
Warnings and Advisories
Fog-related warnings are in effect through sunrise, with additional advisories possible if conditions continue to be hazardous. Drivers are encouraged to stay updated with local weather reports and take all necessary precautions when traveling.
