What is fog?

Fog is a meteorological phenomenon that occurs when tiny water droplets or ice crystals are suspended in the air near the ground, leading to reduced visibility. It is essentially a cloud that forms at or near the Earth’s surface. Fog can vary in thickness, from a light mist that slightly blurs the surroundings to dense fog that severely limits visibility.

Key Characteristics of Fog:

• Formation: Fog typically forms when air near the ground cools, and the temperature reaches the dew point. This can happen in various ways, such as radiational cooling on clear nights or when warm, moist air moves over a colder surface.
• Visibility: One of the defining features of fog is reduced visibility. It can make objects that are at a distance appear blurry or completely obscure them.
• Types: There are several types of fog, each forming under specific conditions. Some common types include radiation fog, advection fog, and upslope fog.
• Location: Fog is often associated with low-lying areas, such as valleys and coastal regions. However, it can occur in various geographical settings.
• Duration: Fog can be short-lived, dissipating quickly once the sun rises and the air warms. In some cases, it may persist for extended periods, especially in regions with frequent temperature inversions.