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In the early morning hours of  January 27, a thick blanket of sea fog rolled in from the Atlantic Ocean, shrouding Cape Town’s iconic waterfront and softening the outline of Table Mountain in the distance. Landmarks along the shoreline, including the V&A Waterfront Ferris wheel, emerged only intermittently from the mist as visibility dropped sharply over the bay.

The phenomenon is closely linked to the cold Benguela Current, which flows northward along South Africa’s west coast. When cold ocean air meets warmer air masses over the city, dense advection fog can form rapidly, particularly during late summer and early autumn mornings. The fog often hugs the coastline before gradually dissipating under stronger sunlight.

Maritime authorities reported reduced visibility in parts of Table Bay, prompting vessels to proceed with caution during early port operations. While no major disruptions were reported, shipping movements were adjusted in line with standard low-visibility safety protocols. Coastal commuters and small craft operators were also advised to remain vigilant as fog lingered offshore.

As the morning progressed, rising temperatures and shifting winds began to lift the fog, revealing Cape Town’s familiar skyline once again. Such episodes, though short-lived, underscore the city’s unique coastal climate—where ocean currents, weather systems and urban life intersect on a daily basis.

Photos taken by CMG journalist SUN SHUO in Cape Town, South Africa.