California Fog Triggers Massive 59-Vehicle Pileup, Shutting Down Highway 99 in Tulare County for Hours
CALIFORNIA — A dense fog event early Saturday morning led to a catastrophic chain-reaction crash involving nearly 60 vehicles on Highway 99 in Tulare County, forcing authorities to shut down the major Central California corridor in both directions as emergency crews rushed to manage the wreckage and assist drivers.
Chain-Reaction Crash Unfolds in Low Visibility Conditions
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the multi-vehicle pileup occurred during the morning hours when visibility along Highway 99 dropped to between 100 and 200 feet, creating extremely hazardous driving conditions.
Investigators believe thick fog was the primary factor, causing drivers to be unable to see slowing or stopped traffic ahead. This resulted in a rapid series of collisions that escalated into one of the largest pileups seen on the highway in recent years.
Severe Vehicle Damage Reported at Crash Scene
Images released by the Tulare County Fire Department show extensive damage, including crushed passenger vehicles wedged between tractor-trailers and debris scattered across multiple lanes. Several vehicles were rendered unrecognizable, underscoring the force of the collisions. Emergency responders worked methodically through the wreckage to ensure all occupants were accounted for and to assess injuries.
Highway 99 Closed in Both Directions for Emergency Response
Due to the scale of the crash, Highway 99 was fully closed in both directions at the scene for several hours while first responders cleared vehicles, treated injured drivers, and investigated the cause of the pileup. Traffic was diverted as crews used heavy equipment to remove damaged vehicles and restore safe travel conditions.
Roadway Reopened After Extended Closure
Officials confirmed that Highway 99 eventually fully reopened later in the day after cleanup operations were completed and the roadway was deemed safe for travel. Authorities did not immediately release details regarding the total number of injuries but emphasized that the incident could have been far worse given the number of vehicles involved.
Officials Warn Drivers About Fog Risks in Central California
CHP officials are urging drivers across Central California to exercise extreme caution during fog events, particularly during winter months when Tule fog can develop rapidly and drastically reduce visibility.
Drivers are advised to:
- Reduce speed significantly in fog
- Increase following distance
- Avoid sudden stops
- Use low-beam headlights instead of high beams
Have you driven through heavy fog on Highway 99 before? Share your experience and stay up to date on breaking traffic and safety news by following SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
