Tule fog season: your winter driving kit

October 6, 2026 · By the Mega Product Sale team

Tule fog is a Central Valley winter tradition, and it can drop visibility to almost nothing on Highway 99, I-5 and rural roads south of Sacramento. Being prepared matters more than speed.

What to keep in the trunk

A roadside emergency kit with jumper cables, a tow strap, reflective triangle and first aid supplies.
A portable tire inflator. Cold mornings lower tire pressure.
A warm blanket, water and a phone charging cable.

Driving in fog

Use low-beam headlights. High beams reflect off the fog and make it harder to see.
Slow down and leave plenty of space between you and the car ahead.
If you need to stop, pull completely off the road and turn on your hazard lights.

Before you leave

Check Caltrans QuickMap and the weather before early morning trips, and give yourself extra time. Arriving late is always better than not arriving at all.