Springfield, Mo. – Drivers across southwest Missouri face dangerous conditions early Friday as dense fog blankets the region, reducing visibility to a quarter of a mile or less. The National Weather Service has issued a Dense Fog Advisory until 10 a.m., urging caution on major highways and rural roads.
According to the Weather Service in Springfield, the thickest fog will settle near lakes, rivers, and low-lying valleys, where travel could become especially hazardous. Areas along Interstate 44 from Joplin through Springfield to Lebanon and U.S. 65 toward Branson are expected to see the worst impacts during the morning commute.
Traffic may slow significantly, and officials advise motorists to allow extra travel time, use low-beam headlights, and avoid sudden stops. Law enforcement warns that reduced visibility on bridges and in wooded areas could make road conditions unpredictable…