Drivers across Middle Tennessee should prepare for dangerous travel conditions early Tuesday as dense fog significantly reduces visibility, making the roads treacherous for morning commuters. The National Weather Service in Nashville has issued a Dense Fog Advisory, which will remain in effect until 8 a.m. CDT Tuesday. This advisory includes areas stretching from Clarksville to Crossville, covering major highways like I-40 and I-65, and metro areas including Nashville, Murfreesboro, and Columbia.
Dense Fog Reduces Visibility
Dense fog is expected to lower visibility to a quarter-mile or less in many areas, particularly in low-lying and rural spots. Drivers should be cautious of significantly reduced sightlines, which could make travel especially hazardous in the early hours of the morning. The thick fog is expected to persist through sunrise in cities like Gallatin, Lebanon, and Cookeville, with conditions slowly improving as the morning progresses.
Safety Precautions for Drivers
Motorists are urged to slow down and use low-beam headlights when driving through foggy conditions to improve visibility and ensure their safety. Increasing the following distance between vehicles is also recommended, as it will provide more reaction time in case of sudden stops. Emergency officials advise delaying non-essential travel until after 8 a.m., when visibility should begin to improve.
Impact on School and Freight Traffic
The dense fog could cause delays for school traffic and disrupt early freight routes, particularly across the Cumberland Plateau and surrounding valleys. School buses and early deliveries may face slower travel times due to the poor visibility. Drivers should remain patient and cautious, especially around these high-traffic areas.
Monitoring and Updates
As of midnight, no major road closures have been reported, but the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) crews are monitoring the situation closely. Drivers are encouraged to stay updated on road conditions through local alerts and traffic apps to ensure a safe journey. More visibility updates will be available by 6 a.m. Tuesday, as the fog begins to lift and travel conditions improve.
