North Carolina on Alert: Dense Fog Advisory Could Make Your Morning Drive a Nightmare!

Published on November 22, 2025

A dense fog advisory has been issued for parts of North Carolina, affecting several counties from Friday evening until early Saturday morning. The advisory, which was issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) at 9:53 p.m. on Friday, is set to remain in effect until 4 a.m. on Saturday. As dense fog rolls across the region, it is expected to significantly reduce visibility, creating potentially hazardous conditions for drivers. The areas under this advisory include Caldwell Mountains, Greater Caldwell, Burke Mountains, Greater Burke, McDowell Mountains, and Eastern McDowell. Additionally, Alexander, Iredell, Davie, Catawba, Rowan, and Lincoln counties are also impacted.

The NWS has issued a warning that drivers should be prepared for reduced visibility, with fog potentially making it difficult to see even a quarter of a mile ahead. This type of dense fog can create dangerous driving conditions, especially during the night when visibility is already limited. The National Weather Service has provided important safety guidelines for anyone who must travel during these challenging conditions.

What to Expect During a Dense Fog Advisory

When a dense fog advisory is in place, the affected areas experience widespread fog that significantly reduces visibility on the roads. Visibilities can drop to as low as a quarter of a mile or even less in some areas, which can make it difficult to see other vehicles, road signs, and landmarks. The thick fog can cause disorientation for drivers, increasing the risk of accidents or collisions. Because these conditions can be unpredictable and change quickly, it is essential to remain cautious and aware of any updated weather warnings.

The NWS has emphasized that driving in foggy conditions requires special care. It is always advisable to slow down and drive with extra caution in these situations. The fog can create an eerie, almost impenetrable blanket over the roads, reducing a driver’s ability to anticipate potential dangers on the road.

Tips for Safe Driving in Foggy Conditions

If travel is necessary during a dense fog advisory, there are several key safety measures that should be followed to ensure the well-being of all road users.

1. Slow Down and Allow Extra Time

The first and most important piece of advice is to slow down. Fog can create misleading perceptions of distance and speed, so drivers should reduce their speed to allow for more reaction time if necessary. Extra time should be built into travel plans to ensure that the trip is completed safely. It’s best to drive at a speed that feels comfortable given the conditions, even if it means taking longer to reach the destination.

2. Use Low-Beam Headlights

Drivers should always use low-beam headlights when driving in fog. High-beam headlights should be avoided as they reflect off the fog, causing glare that makes it harder to see. Low-beam headlights help illuminate the road immediately in front of the vehicle without causing excessive glare. Using fog lights is also advisable if the vehicle is equipped with them, as they are specifically designed for these kinds of conditions. Taillights will also be illuminated when low-beam headlights are used, making it easier for vehicles behind you to spot your car in the fog.

3. Maintain Safe Distance from Other Vehicles

In foggy conditions, maintaining a safe distance between vehicles is essential. Drivers should leave plenty of space between their vehicle and the one in front to account for any sudden stops or changes in the traffic pattern. Fog can cause delays in reaction times, so a greater following distance can provide the necessary buffer in case of unexpected situations.

4. Stay in Your Lane

The lack of visibility in foggy conditions can make it difficult to stay within the lane. To ensure that the vehicle remains safely within the lane, drivers are advised to keep their eyes on the road’s lane markings. These lines serve as a guide and can help prevent accidents when visibility is reduced.

5. Pull Over if Visibility Becomes Severely Limited

In cases where the fog becomes so thick that visibility is reduced to near zero, the best course of action is to pull over to a safe location. It’s recommended to turn on the vehicle’s hazard lights to alert other drivers to your presence. If there is a parking lot or driveway nearby, pulling into it is the safest option. If no such area is available, it is essential to move the vehicle as far off the road as possible. Once the car is safely stopped, the engine should be turned off, and the parking brake should be engaged. The foot should be taken off the brake pedal to ensure that the taillights do not remain illuminated, which could lead to confusion for other drivers who may mistakenly believe the vehicle is still moving.

The Importance of Safety and Caution

The dense fog advisory is a reminder of the unpredictable and potentially dangerous weather conditions that can affect travel in North Carolina during the colder months. While fog is a natural weather phenomenon, it can present significant challenges for those on the road. The advice from the NWS is clear: drive with caution, reduce speed, and take all necessary precautions to ensure safety.

Conclusion

As the dense fog advisory remains in effect until Saturday morning, all drivers in the affected areas of North Carolina are urged to exercise extreme caution. The combination of low visibility and difficult road conditions can make driving hazardous, and proper precautions should be taken to avoid accidents. While the fog may be temporary, the safety measures outlined by the National Weather Service can help ensure that everyone stays safe on the roads. For those who do not need to travel, it is best to wait until the fog has cleared before heading out. As always, staying informed about the latest weather updates is essential during times like these.