A thick fog has enveloped multiple states across the United States, with residents reporting a 'burning chemical-like smell' permeating their communities. Videos shared on social media show what appears to be white particles falling and swirling in the air.
Health symptoms resembling respiratory illness have been reported by some individuals. A resident from Florida recounted feeling unwell after a brief stop at a gas station, experiencing persistent sneezing, swollen eyes, and abdominal cramps.
States including Texas, Wisconsin, Iowa, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, North Dakota, Florida, and Minnesota are currently under fog advisories. Similar reports have emerged from Canada and the United Kingdom, raising concerns among the public.
Speculation regarding the fog's origin has led to various conspiracy theories, with some suggesting it could be linked to chemical weapons or drones. A Texas resident noted her dog's unusual behavior outdoors, while another shared experiences of 'massive amounts of chemtrails' preceding the fog.
David Bamber from St. Petersburg, Florida, shared a TikTok video illustrating the persistent fog, which typically dissipates by day but has lingered into the night. He described the fog's taste and smell as reminiscent of fireworks and toxic in nature.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued advisories, indicating a scientific basis for the phenomenon. Fog consists of tiny water droplets or ice crystals suspended in the air, which can trap pollutants, intensifying odors from car emissions and industrial activities.
According to atmospheric scientist Rudolf Husar, fog can absorb sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides, contributing to the perceived chemical smell. This weather pattern is typical for this time of year, with advection fog forming when warm, moist air moves over colder land.
While fog generally appears as a gray mist, shining light through it reveals the individual droplets. The respiratory symptoms reported by some individuals may be attributed to the high moisture content in the air, which can irritate the respiratory tract, particularly in those with asthma.
In summary, the current fog phenomenon across the United States is likely a standard winter weather occurrence, with no evidence suggesting otherwise.