Dense Fog across US Stirs Memories of 1950 Navy Experiment

The dense fog described by some as "unnatural" has engulfed several states in the US, with citizens reporting health symptoms and an unusual chemical-like odor. These developments have reignited fears of a bioweapon test similar to the infamous 1950 "Operation Sea Spray."

In September 1950, the US Navy conducted a covert biological warfare experiment off the coast of San Francisco, spraying bacteria believed to be harmless. However, the operation caused severe health issues among residents, leading to one death and multiple hospitalizations.

Seventy-five years later, reports of a similar fog have emerged, accompanied by claims of respiratory symptoms. A Florida resident told the Daily Mail, "Within an hour of exposure, I started sneezing repeatedly, and my eyes were swollen. I felt feverish with stomach cramps."

Residents in other states, including California and Kansas, have shared accounts of chemical-like odors, dense fog, and unusual sky patterns. Videos showing white particles in the air have flooded social media, fueling conspiracy theories that the phenomenon might be linked to chemical weapons or drone activities.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has dismissed these claims, explaining that the fog is a natural occurrence. According to the NWS, much of the fog is advection fog, commonly forming in winter when warm, moist air moves over colder surfaces.

Experts also noted that the fog's "chemical" smell could result from pollutants trapped within it, such as industrial emissions and car exhaust. Rudolf Husar, an atmospheric scientist, explained that fog droplets can absorb pollutants, intensifying odors in the air.

While fog can irritate respiratory systems, especially in individuals with asthma, scientists have stated there is no evidence linking the current weather event to biowarfare or government testing.

For now, officials urge calm, emphasizing that the fog aligns with typical winter weather patterns and poses no unusual threat.