Dense fog threatens Monday morning rush-hour disruption

Published8 November 2026

The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for dense fog across much of England and eastern Wales running from 18:00 on Sunday until 11:00 on Monday. A separate yellow fog warning has also been issued for Northern Ireland and runs from 22:00 on Sunday until 10:00 on Monday. See warning details here, external.

The larger fog warning for England and Wales covers an area of the southern UK stretching from Canterbury to Cardiff, Hull to St Asaph and Southampton to York, and includes London, Birmingham and parts of Greater Manchester.

Visibility could fall to less than 50m in places, making driving difficult. Bus, train, ferry and flight services could also face delays or cancellations.

The fog will gradually lift through Monday morning, although some patches could linger into the afternoon.

Commuters can also expect a chilly start, with temperatures widely falling into low single figures and ground frost likely in many areas.

Thick fog already blanketed parts of England and Wales on Saturday night, making an FA cup match between Altrincham and Notts County less of a spectator sport.

It also caused a 30-car pile-up on the M20 in Kent, leaving two people seriously injured, as well as a 19-car collision on the A303 in Hampshire.

How does fog form?

Fog will be more widespread than last night as clearer skies across England and Wales allow heat to escape quicker, causing temperatures to fall.

Patchy fog could also develop outside the warning area in northern parts of the UK wherever skies remain clear for long enough.

Fog forms when air cools and water vapour condenses into tiny droplets suspended near the ground, creating cloud at ground level.

Mist forms in the same way but is less dense, with visibility generally greater than 1,000 metres (1km).

Advice for commuters and travellers

Visibility of 50m or less can cause severe travel disruption. The Met Office advises drivers to check road conditions before setting off and use fog lights when visibility is seriously reduced.

Allow extra time for your journey and adjust your plans if necessary. Patchy fog can be particularly dangerous because visibility can change suddenly.

The RAC motoring organisation recommends allowing extra stopping distance between your vehicle and the one ahead.

If you're using public transport or flying, check for updates from your operator and follow its advice. Flights may be delayed because aircraft need greater spacing when landing in fog.

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