Winter Weather
Black Ice Weather Guide: Why Roads Freeze When They Look Wet
How black ice forms, where it is most common, and why bridges, shaded roads, and early mornings are risky after winter precipitation.
Quick answer: Black ice is a thin, hard-to-see layer of ice on pavement. It often looks like a wet or slightly dark patch instead of obvious snow or slush.
How it forms
Black ice can form when melted snow refreezes, freezing drizzle coats roads, fog deposits ice, or wet pavement cools below freezing.
It is especially common when temperatures hover near 32 degrees and pavement cools faster than expected.
Where to expect it
Bridges, overpasses, shaded curves, untreated side roads, and low spots often freeze first.
Road temperature can be colder than the air temperature shown on your phone.
Driving response
Slow down before suspicious areas, avoid sudden braking, and leave extra distance.
If roads are glazing over, delaying travel is safer than trying to outdrive the ice.