What to know about black ice as winter weather grips central NC
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Black ice is expected overnight in Central North Carolina, but what exactly is black ice?
Anytime you get precipitation, whether that be snow or rain, and then temperatures drop below freezing, that moisture can freeze onto any surface, including roads.
It is called black ice because it's a thin layer of ice that blends in with dark surfaces like pavement or asphalt, making it nearly impossible to see.
With lows dropping into the teens and 20s tonight across Central NC, black ice is likely, especially on bridges and overpasses. Secondary roads and shaded areas are other problem spots to watch.
With black ice being a possibility, it's very important to pay extra attention while driving in the morning. Driving slower and increasing your following distance creates a safer environment on the roads.
Drivers are being advised to reduce their speed and increase their following distance from the vehicle in front of them. The safest place to be is off the roads and at home.
The North Carolina Department of Transportation is keeping a very close eye on the threat of black ice.
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NCDOT crews dumped more than 47,000 gallons of brine between Sunday and Monday, and focused on elevated roads such as bridges, overpasses, and interchanges. With shaded areas also an area for concern.
Durham County roads were treated Sunday, and Wake County roads were treated Monday.
The NCDOT will have crews on standby throughout the night.
ABC11's DeJuan Hoggard contributed.
