What effect does advection fog have on visibility?

Advection fog occurs when warm, moist air moves over a colder surface, typically water or cool land. As this air cools, it reaches its dew point, resulting in condensation and the formation of fog. The key impact of advection fog is a significant reduction in visibility. This phenomenon can create murky conditions where the horizontal visibility can drop to less than a quarter mile, making it quite challenging for navigation and operations.

Understanding the dynamics of how advection fog forms helps to clarify its effects on visibility. Since the formation of fog involves a high level of moisture in the air condensing into tiny water droplets that hang in the atmosphere, these droplets scatter light, which in turn diminishes clarity and the ability to see. Consequently, pilots and navigators must be aware of these conditions, especially when flying or maneuvering in areas prone to such weather phenomena.