AJ: Ice fog happens in Fairbanks when it drops to -30 or colder. When moisture hits super cooled air that can not hold any more moisture, we get ice fog. The “extra” moisture comes from cars, homes, furnaces and power plants, as well as other sources. It is complicated by our temperature inversions, where the warm air is found at higher elevations and the cold air is forced lower, trapping the ice fog.
My buddy Peter did decide to ride along for part of the trip afterall. He arrived via Amtrak around midnight of the first visit to SA. When we drove down to Laredo, we drove I-35, but on the return trip north, we went the scenic route and drove Hwy 59 to Hwy 16. I drove to Freer, then had Peter drive north on 59. About 8 miles out from SA, a very enthusiastic gentleman, who was standing on the side of the road next to a white pickup truck, was frantically flagging us down. We assumed that he had passed us, and that there was something wrong with the Rover. Peter hit the brakes, causing the Rover to swerve just as the fellow walked closer to the edge of the road.
“Well, don’t hit him!” I shouted. I slid the passenger window open and the man said, “I’m sorry, but you just don’t see many 109’s out this way anymore.”
“Oh. Well. That’s ok.”
We chatted for a bit as traffic flew past us, and he gave me his cell number & email in case I need anything. He has “tons” of spare Rover parts. In the end, I gave him my email as well.
Crazy.
By now Peter had time to think over driving the Rover into SA, so I went back to the drivers seat and we left Mac waving us off.
I’ve never had that happen before.
