mist

Mist is an atmospheric phenomenon in which tiny liquid water droplets are suspended near the ground, reducing visibility. It is similar to fog but less dense, so visibility is typically greater.

Mist forms when moist air near the surface cools to its dew point or when humid air moves over cooler ground or water, causing condensation into small droplets. It commonly appears in the early morning or after rain, over bodies of water, in valleys, and along coastlines, especially where radiative cooling or temperature inversions occur.

The density and persistence of mist depend on humidity, temperature, wind, and surface radiation. In meteorology, fog is defined by visibility below 1 kilometer; mist generally yields visibility around 1 to 2 kilometers, though thresholds vary by region. Mist droplets are smaller and less numerous than those of fog, resulting in lower liquid water content and higher visibility.

Mist can affect transportation and outdoor activities by reducing visibility and scattering light, sometimes creating halos or a frosted appearance on surfaces. It typically dissipates as the sun rises, winds increase, or temperatures rise, allowing dew point to fall or water droplets to evaporate.

Mist is also used as a title in various works of media; this article focuses on the meteorological phenomenon. See also other uses of the term Mist.