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California Fog Hides Pollution, Sparks Health Fears
17 Dec
Summary
- Dense radiation fog has lingered for weeks in California's Central Valley.
- Locals report respiratory symptoms and unusual white residue on cars.
- Trapped pollutants are suspected of causing health issues, not the fog itself.
For weeks, California's Central Valley has been covered by a thick blanket of radiation fog, coinciding with a rise in reported respiratory ailments among residents. This phenomenon, also known as Tule fog, occurs when ground temperatures plummet after sunset, creating a dense, low-lying cloud. Reports from affected areas detail symptoms such as persistent coughing, congestion, and even exacerbated skin conditions like eczema.
While the fog itself is essentially water vapor and does not cause illness, it can create dangerous conditions. Temperature inversions frequently accompany these fog events, trapping car exhaust, industrial emissions, and other airborne particles close to the ground. This accumulation of pollutants can lead to significant respiratory irritation, particularly for individuals with pre-existing lung conditions like asthma.
Adding to concerns, some residents have observed a mysterious white residue on their vehicles after driving through the fog, which is not characteristic of natural radiation fog. This residue might be a result of dust, pollution, smoke, or chemical particles suspended in the air, potentially contributing to the observed health issues. A weather system is anticipated around December 17, but its strength in clearing the persistent fog remains uncertain.
