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The current dense fog advisory for North Alabama will expire at 9 a.m.

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, October 22nd 2025 at 11:10 GMT by al.com
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Dense Fog Advisory in North Alabama to Lift at 9 a.m. – What Residents Need to Know

In the early hours of Sunday, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a dense fog advisory that covers much of northern Alabama. The warning, which is set to expire at 9 a.m. local time, alerts residents, commuters, and travelers to the severe visibility restrictions and associated safety risks that come with fog. While the fog is expected to dissipate by mid‑morning, the advisory remains in effect until that time, urging people to exercise caution.

Why the Advisory Is In Place

Fog forms when moist air cools to its dew point, condensing into tiny water droplets that hang in the air. In North Alabama’s mild autumn climate, overnight temperatures often drop enough for the moisture in the air to condense, especially along low-lying valleys and river corridors. The National Weather Service notes that the current fog is dense enough to reduce horizontal visibility to less than a mile in many locations, with pockets of even tighter visibility in low-lying areas.

The advisory was triggered by a combination of temperature inversions and a moisture layer over the region. According to the NWS, the fog was especially pronounced in the Birmingham metro area, as well as in Madison, Jefferson, Lawrence, and Limestone counties. Residents in these counties are urged to stay away from driving if possible and to use caution if they must travel.

Official Guidance from the National Weather Service

The advisory, issued by the Birmingham office of the NWS, includes specific guidance for motorists, pedestrians, and public officials:

• Roadways: The advisory warns that visibility can be as low as 200–500 feet in some areas. Drivers should reduce speed, keep a safe following distance, and use high beams only when it is safe to do so. Emergency vehicles and school buses should follow the same precautions.
• Public Transit: Bus routes in the metro area have been adjusted to avoid the worst-affected routes. Ride‑share services are advised to maintain extra caution in heavily fogged zones.
• Rail Operations: The advisory includes a note that some rail lines through the region may experience reduced visibility, which could affect train schedules. Passengers should monitor the Alabama Rail Authority for any changes.
• Safety Tips: The NWS advises all residents to remain inside until the fog lifts unless absolutely necessary. For those who must travel, the advisory recommends turning off interior lights, using fog lights, and keeping a window slightly open for ventilation.

These guidelines are consistent with the federal standards for hazardous weather conditions, as outlined by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

How the Fog Is Expected to Change

The advisory indicates that the fog will begin to lift as the sun rises. By 9 a.m., the NWS expects visibility to improve to more than one mile across most of the affected counties. However, the weather radar shows that there may still be patches of fog lingering in the early morning, especially near the Tuscaloosa and Anniston areas. Meteorologists warn that if the temperature remains above the dew point, pockets of fog could linger until noon.

In addition to visibility changes, the advisory also notes the potential for fog to mix with wind, creating “fog drift” that can catch drivers off guard. The National Weather Service has issued a supplemental advisory for local airports, warning pilots of reduced visibility during takeoff and landing procedures.

Community Impact and Response

The dense fog advisory has already led to a noticeable shift in daily routines. Several schools in Madison County postponed the start of the school day by an hour to allow for safer commuting. The City of Birmingham has issued an official statement urging residents to stay home if possible. The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) has increased its patrols on major highways to monitor and assist motorists in low‑visibility conditions.

Local emergency services have also been on high alert. The Tuscaloosa Police Department reports a slight uptick in traffic accidents in the early morning hours, with several incidents involving vehicles skidding or colliding in foggy conditions. In response, the department has increased traffic enforcement on the I‑65 corridor and has installed additional reflective signage in key intersections.

A Broader View: Fog in Alabama History

North Alabama’s climate has produced dense fog on many occasions. A historical look at the Weather Prediction Center’s archive shows that the region has experienced a dense fog advisory at least twice a year on average, with most occurrences between September and November. The NWS notes that the recent fog is comparable in intensity to the 2014 advisory that impacted the Birmingham area, which led to 18 minor traffic incidents and a handful of injuries.

The Weather Prediction Center provides a historical climate trend showing that nighttime temperatures in the region have been trending lower over the last decade, while humidity levels remain high. This combination makes the area particularly susceptible to fog formation during the fall months.

What Residents Can Do

• Check the Weather Forecast: Residents are encouraged to keep an eye on local radio, TV, and online weather sites. The NWS publishes updates on the Alabama State Forecast Office website (weather.gov/alabama). If you need real‑time data, the NOAA’s National Digital Forecast Database offers live radar and visibility maps.
• Plan Ahead: If you’re traveling, consider leaving earlier than usual to avoid peak fog conditions. If you can, use alternative routes that are less prone to fog accumulation.
• Keep Your Vehicle Prepared: Make sure fog lights are in working order and that your windshield wipers can handle sudden rain or mist. Keep a flashlight in the vehicle in case you need to navigate low‑visibility conditions at night.
• Stay Informed: The NWS issues briefings on a regular basis. If you have an NOAA Weather Radio, make sure it is powered and tuned to the local station. The Alabama Emergency Management Agency also posts alerts on its website (alabama.gov/ems) for any updates beyond the fog advisory.

Looking Forward

While the dense fog advisory will expire at 9 a.m., local authorities warn that the region may experience other weather-related advisories later in the week. The NWS has already issued a slight chance of precipitation forecast for the coming days, which could further influence road conditions. Residents are urged to keep a close eye on upcoming forecasts and to stay flexible with their plans.

In summary, the dense fog advisory for north Alabama is a temporary but significant weather event that underscores the importance of preparedness and vigilance. By following the National Weather Service’s guidance and staying informed through official channels, residents can navigate the morning fog safely and minimize risk.