Dense fog blankets North Texas, causing panic among residents

North Texas faced significant weather events leading into the end of December 2024. Initially, the region experienced a series of storms that prompted severe and flash flood warnings due to heavy rainfall. This downpour was beneficial as it helped combat ongoing drought concerns expected to show improvements in the upcoming drought monitor update. However, the aftermath of the storms resulted in dense fog forming across the area, particularly along I-35. The fog, brought on by saturated soil and cooling temperatures overnight, created severely reduced visibility conditions, leading to a Dense Fog Advisory being issued. Visibility dropped to less than a quarter-mile in some areas, necessitating caution for drivers on the roads. Despite the dreary start to the Sunday of December 29, 2024, temperatures were forecasted to rise into the upper 60s as the fog dissipated, and sunshine returned in the afternoon. Looking ahead to Monday, North Texas was expected to see significantly warmer weather, marking the last warmer-than-average day of the year before a cold front rolled through, bringing chillier conditions. The incoming front is predicted to lower day temperatures significantly for New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, with highs expected only in the 50s and 30s in some places. The contrasting weather of pleasant warmth giving way to cold is quite characteristic of Texas winters, and forecasters are anticipating a return to seasonal temperatures midweek. This change marks a transition from one of the wettest Decembers on record, suggesting a notable end to the year as residents prepare for the colder months ahead.