Dense fog advisory issued as fog sparks deadly 17-car pileup on Hwy 99 in Fresno
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Fog caused 17-vehicle pileup on Highway 99, killing one and injuring others.
- CHP links reduced visibility near 15 feet to chain-reaction collision initiation.
- NWS issued fog advisory for much of the San Joaquin Valley until 11 a.m.
It had been some time since a major multi-vehicle collision occurred on a Fresno highway, but that changed on Sunday when a 17-vehicle pileup on Highway 99, between North and Cedar Avenues, left one person dead and several others injured.
According to the California Highway Patrol, dense fog reduced visibility to as little as 15 feet. When two drivers slowed down under these conditions, it set off a chain reaction that led to the pileup. Highway 99 remains closed as of 7 p.m.
Although Highway 99 has a history of severe crashes, Sunday’s 17-vehicle collision does not mark the highway’s largest.
In 2002, heavy fog near Fowler contributed to a crash involving at least 90 vehicles, resulting in three deaths and numerous injuries.
Again in 2007, foggy conditions south of American Avenue in Fresno triggered a collision with 86 vehicles, killing two people and injuring 12.
With more foggy days forecast, the California Highway Patrol is urging extra caution.
“Just safety first,” CHP spokesperson Mike Salas said. “We can’t stress it enough. Please slow down, especially in inclement weather — fog specifically. If you can delay your trip, please do. Tragedy can happen. Drive at safe speeds and keep those seat belts buckled.”
The National Weather Service in Hanford has issued a fog advisory for much of the San Joaquin Valley — from Merced County to south of Kern County — beginning at midnight and lasting until 11 a.m. Monday.
Drivers are reminded to remain vigilant, reduce speed, and exercise extreme caution when traveling in foggy conditions on Highway 99 and throughout the region.
This story was originally published January 11, 2026 at 3:59 PM.
