59-Vehicle Pileup on Fog-Shrouded California Highway Injures 10

The crash occurred on Highway 99 in Tulare County, an area known for dangerous fog conditions.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 6:15pm

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Ten people were injured after 59 vehicles crashed on a California highway known for dangerous fog conditions. The pileup occurred on Highway 99 in Tulare County, southeast of Fresno, where visibility was limited to just 100-200 feet due to thick fog. One person suffered a moderate injury, while the other nine had minor injuries. The highway was closed for over six hours as authorities responded to the scene.

Why it matters

Deadly crashes caused by poor visibility due to fog are an ongoing issue on Highway 99 in California's Central Valley. This latest incident highlights the need for improved safety measures and driver awareness in areas prone to such hazardous weather conditions.

The details

The California Highway Patrol started receiving emergency calls just after 8:15 a.m. local time about the multiple-vehicle crash on both sides of Highway 99. The responding officer reported visibility was limited to 100-200 feet due to the fog. The pileup involved nearly 60 vehicles, including big rigs, trucks, and cars, some of which were 'mangled up' according to authorities.

  • The crash occurred on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
  • Highway 99 was closed for more than six hours following the incident.

The players

California Highway Patrol

The state law enforcement agency that responded to and investigated the multi-vehicle crash on Highway 99.

Officer Adrian Gonzalez

A spokesman for the California Highway Patrol who provided details about the incident to the media.

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What they’re saying

“The officer responding to the scene reported there was only 100 to 200 feet of visibility because of fog.”

— Officer Adrian Gonzalez, Spokesman, California Highway Patrol (nytimes.com)

What’s next

Authorities will continue investigating the cause of the pileup and whether any charges will be filed against drivers involved. Highway officials may also consider additional safety measures to improve visibility and reduce the risk of future crashes in this fog-prone area.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the dangers of driving in heavy fog and the need for heightened caution and preparedness when navigating highways in weather-prone regions. It serves as a reminder for drivers to slow down, increase following distance, and be extra vigilant in low-visibility conditions.