The National Weather Service has issued a freezing fog advisory for parts of northern New York. This advisory is effective from 4 a.m. to 10 a.m. today. The areas affected include Northern St. Lawrence, Northern Franklin, Eastern Clinton, Eastern Essex, and Southwestern St. Lawrence.
Advisory Details and Safety Precautions
During the advisory, visibility may drop to just a quarter of a mile due to the freezing fog. This low visibility, combined with a light glaze of ice, particularly on bridges and overpasses, can create hazardous driving conditions.
- Slow down while driving.
- Use your headlights to improve visibility.
- Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
Understanding Freezing Fog
Freezing fog occurs when surface temperatures are at or below freezing. In these conditions, tiny liquid droplets within the fog can freeze upon contact with surfaces, forming a layer of rime ice. This phenomenon can significantly affect visibility and create dangerous conditions for motorists.
Formation of Freezing Fog
Freezing fog forms similarly to regular fog. It starts with clear skies, which leads to radiative cooling of the Earth’s surface. As the temperature drops, the air loses its capacity to hold moisture, leading to condensation. Water droplets in this state can remain liquid even when below freezing. When these droplets touch surfaces, they quickly crystallize into ice.
The Risk of Black Ice
Black ice, a nearly invisible glaze of ice, is a significant hazard associated with freezing fog. This ice can form rapidly on roads, making driving particularly dangerous.
Stay Safe During Freezing Fog
Here are essential guidelines to follow during freezing fog conditions:
- Vigilance: Be aware of black ice and its dangers.
- Speed: Drive at a reduced speed to ensure safety.
- Headlights: Use low-beam headlights and fog lights, if available.
- Distance: Keep ample space between your vehicle and others.
- Lane Awareness: Use lane markings to stay in your lane.
For air travel, check that aircraft surfaces are treated to avoid ice accumulation before takeoff. Proper de-icing procedures are crucial for ensuring safety during freezing fog conditions.
Stay informed and prioritize safety to navigate through this freezing fog advisory effectively.
