SPRINGFIELD, IL — A dense fog advisory has been issued for Central Illinois as early morning commuters faced dangerous driving conditions along major highways, including I-55 and I-72, on Friday.
Low visibility — under a quarter-mile in some areas — has prompted travel warnings from the National Weather Service.
Dense Fog Impacts Commuters Across Key Corridors
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) office in Lincoln, patchy dense fog formed overnight and is affecting areas along and south of Interstate 72, including:
- Springfield
- Litchfield
- Effingham
- Portions of Interstate 55
Visibility conditions have dropped significantly, creating a hazard for early morning travel. Drivers are advised to reduce speed, use low-beam headlights, and allow extra time for commuting.
Most Affected Regions: Quincy, Jacksonville, Vandalia
Fog impacts are especially strong near:
- Quincy
- Jacksonville
- Vandalia
In these areas, highways such as I-72 and I-70 are experiencing severe visibility drops, especially along rural roads and low-lying terrain.
“This is the first major fog event of June,” said an NWS forecaster. “It’s a reminder that humid summer mornings can still bring dangerous driving conditions.”
When Will Conditions Improve?
According to weather officials, fog should begin lifting around 9:00 a.m., with normal visibility returning by 10:00 a.m. However, travelers should monitor traffic reports and allow additional time for morning errands or commutes.
If fog density worsens or fails to lift, additional advisories may be issued later in the morning.
Have you noticed increased fog in your area this week? Share your visibility concerns or weather photos from Central Illinois in the comments at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.