Melting Snow Brings Black Ice Threat Across Indiana

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As snow continues to melt across Indiana this week, colder overnight temperatures are allowing leftover moisture to refreeze, creating the potential for black ice on roads, especially on side streets, rural roads, and untreated surfaces. Drivers are advised to watch for slick spots during the Thursday and Friday morning commutes.

Why it matters

Black ice can be difficult to see and poses a serious threat to driver safety, especially during the morning commute when many people are on the roads. This is a common issue during the transition from winter to spring as melting snow creates ideal conditions for refreezing.

The details

Warmer daytime temperatures are helping melt snow, but overnight lows in the 20s are allowing that moisture to refreeze, often in low spots, on road shoulders, and on untreated surfaces. Areas most vulnerable to black ice include side streets, rural roads, bridges, overpasses, and anywhere there are lingering snow piles.

• Overnight temperatures are expected to fall into the 20s on Thursday and Friday mornings.
• A warmer weather pattern is expected to arrive next week, which should help eliminate most remaining snow.

What’s next

Drivers should exercise caution and watch for slick spots during their Thursday and Friday morning commutes, especially on side streets, rural roads, and other untreated surfaces.