San Francisco: Unprecedented Fog Banks Cause Widespread Delays

San Francisco Grapples with Unprecedented Fog BanksSan Francisco Grapples with Unprecedented Fog Banks The iconic City by the Bay has been shrouded in a dense blanket of fog, causing widespread delays and disruption throughout the region. According to the National Weather Service, the fog banks rolling in from the Pacific Ocean have been unusually thick and persistent, reducing visibility to dangerously low levels. The fog has been hanging over the city for days, making it difficult to navigate roads, bridges, and airports. Transportation Chaos The heavy fog has caused major delays on major transportation arteries. At San Francisco International Airport (SFO), over 50 flights have been canceled and hundreds more have been delayed. The Golden Gate Bridge has been closed to both vehicle and pedestrian traffic multiple times due to poor visibility. On the roads, visibility has been reduced to as low as 200 feet in some areas. This has resulted in numerous accidents and traffic jams. Public transportation services have also been impacted, with delays and cancellations reported across the entire Bay Area. Safety Concerns The thick fog poses significant safety hazards. Drivers are urged to use extreme caution and turn on their headlights. Pedestrians are advised to wear bright clothing and make themselves visible to motorists. Authorities have issued marine safety warnings for boaters navigating the fog-covered waters of the Bay and along the coast. Small craft are encouraged to stay in port or exercise extreme caution. Economic Impact The fog banks are also having a negative impact on the local economy. Businesses are reporting slowdowns in activity due to reduced foot traffic. Tourism has also been affected, as visitors struggle to navigate the city’s fog-bound landmarks. Meteorological Explanation Meteorologists attribute the unprecedented fog banks to a combination of factors. A persistent high-pressure system over the Pacific Ocean has been pushing cold, moist air over the warmer waters of the San Francisco Bay. This creates a stable layer of air that traps moisture near the surface. Forecast The thick fog is expected to persist over the next few days, with only minor improvements in visibility forecast. The National Weather Service advises residents and visitors to be prepared for continued disruptions and to take necessary precautions.