Dense fog triggers 59-vehicle crash, shuts down Hwy 99 in Tulare County, CHP says
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Dense fog reduced visibility to about 200 feet, triggering multi-vehicle chain‑reaction.
- Highway 99 closed both directions from Avenue 24 to Kern County l CHP and crews responded.
- Authorities warned drivers to manually use headlights, urged detours.
Highway 99 in Tulare County was shut down in both directions Saturday morning following a 59-vehicle fog-related collision.
The closure stretches from Avenue 24 south of Earlimart to three miles south to the Kern County line, affecting both northbound and southbound lanes, authorities said.
The crash was reported at 8:16 a.m.
The California Highway Patrol is on scene, with assistance from Kern County Fire, Visalia City Fire, Tulare County Fire, EMS and Caltrans.
Visibility dropped to as little as 200 feet, authorities said, leading to multiple chain-reaction crashes involving vehicles and several big rigs.
Lane were completely blocked in both directions at various points throughout the morning.
Authorities warned motorists that the fog conditions are especially dangerous because automatic headlights may not activate, leaving vehicles nearly invisible.
“During dense fog, do not rely on automatic headlights. Because it is not dark, headlights and taillights may not be illuminated. Drivers must manually turn on headlights so others can see them,” officials said on social media.
As of 11:42 a.m., Highway 99 remained closed in both directions, and motorists were urged to avoid travel in the area and use alternate routes through Teviston or Pixley when possible.
Multiple people sustained minor to moderate injuries, CHP said.
CHP said the investigation remains ongoing, and reopening times have not yet been announced.
This story was originally published January 31, 2026 at 12:59 PM.
