Hobart Fog Advisory System

The Hobart Fog Advisory System is maintained by the Fog Advisory Committee (FAC) and communicated through PAL-TV Channel 6. The system uses five advisory levels. Public guidance for each level is listed below.

Current Advisory Level: 0

Advisory Levels

Level 0 - Routine Fog / No Advisory

FAC Code: §1406.01(a) / 0A-Routine Drift

Standard morning or evening fog. Visibility slightly reduced but stable. No public action required. The streetlight on Barley Lane may flicker regardless of conditions.

  • Use headlights as needed.
  • Report sudden visibility drops to Village Hall.
  • Ignore fog unless it begins “moving with purpose.”

The FAC does not respond to Level 0 calls.

Level I - Reduced Visibility Advisory

FAC Code: §1406.02 / 1C-Hesitant Fog

Fog is present in low-lying and riverside areas. Visibility noticeably reduced but predictable. No unusual drift patterns. Roads may be slick. Sounds may appear muffled or carried farther than expected.

  • Use low beams.
  • Reduce speed near the riverfront and Hocking Street.
  • Keep pets indoors.
  • Monitor PAL-TV Channel 6 for updates.

FAC begins monitoring barometric conditions.

Level II - Active Fog Presence

FAC Code: §1406.03 / 2F-Engaged Fog

Fog density increases and affects navigation across multiple areas of the Low Counties. Visibility may drop suddenly in pockets. Local landmarks may appear “slightly off.” Familiar routes may feel longer than expected.

  • Avoid the riverfront.
  • Travel in pairs.
  • Do not follow noises.
  • Keep an index card with your address on your person.
  • Check PAL-TV Channel 6 for updates.

FAC deploys the Fog Volunteers.

Level III - Severe Fog Warning

FAC Code: §1406.04 / 3J-Responsive Fog

Dense, widespread fog. Visibility extremely limited even at close range. Emergency services may experience delays. The fog may linger near the Mounds, municipal lots, and the Hocking Street corridor.

  • Shelter in place if possible.
  • Limit travel to essential trips only.
  • Use fog lights if available.
  • Keep windows closed.
  • Stay away from windows after 11:17 PM.
  • Schools and public facilities may delay opening.
  • PAL-TV Channel 6 will broadcast updates.

FAC switches to the orange binder.

Level IV - Fog Emergency

FAC Code: §1406.05 / 4R-Cyclical Recurrence

A rare but documented fog pattern. Road closures may be issued. Multiple incidents or near-misses reported. Emergency personnel may restrict access to certain areas.

  • Stay indoors.
  • Unplug appliances.
  • Follow PAL-TV’s emergency scroll.
  • Trust official communication only.
  • Schools likely closed.

Fog Volunteers issued reflective scarves.

Level V - Classification: Restricted

Not part of the public advisory system. Refer to Historical Society file.