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Massive 59-Vehicle Pileup on Foggy California Highway

2/1/2026

39 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

A 59-vehicle pileup occurred on Highway 99 in Tulare County, California, on January 31, 2026, as fog reduced visibility to 100–200 feet.
Ten people were injured; the California Highway Patrol (CHP) confirmed 59 vehicles and disputed reports of 150, and the highway was closed for over six hours.
This follows a January 11, 2026 fatal crash where one person died in a 17-vehicle pileup under similar fog.

History

Historical Context

The Great Blizzard of 1978 struck the northeastern United States from January 25 to 27, causing over 100 fatalities and significant travel disruptions. With snow accumulations exceeding 30 inches and winds gusting up to 70 mph, the storm paralyzed regions like Buffalo, New York. This event highlighted the need for improved infrastructure and safety measures to mitigate the impact of severe winter weather.

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Story summary

A 59-vehicle pileup occurred on Highway 99 in Tulare County, California, on January 31, 2026, as fog reduced visibility to 100–200 feet.
Ten people were injured; the California Highway Patrol (CHP) confirmed 59 vehicles and disputed reports of 150, and the highway was closed for over six hours.
This follows a January 11, 2026 fatal crash where one person died in a 17-vehicle pileup under similar fog.

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