When the temperature drops, remember to watch for black ice
By Garrett Christensen on Friday, December 8th, 2023 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
EASTERN OREGON – Snow may be what blocks roadways, but its ice that shuts down highways. While much of Eastern Oregon is still experiencing above freezing temperatures during the day, black ice can still easily form at night and linger throughout the morning. These thin, transparent, layers of ice give the illusion of a wet, but not frozen, roadway surface, reducing a driver’s ability to slow down or even notice them at all. In addition, black ice, as well as more visible patches of ice, can often linger in shaded areas even after temperatures get above freezing, possibly catching drivers off guard.
With temperatures expected to drop this weekend, it doesn’t hurt to be prepared. The Oregon Department of Transportation offers the following general safety guidelines for driving in icy conditions:
- Do not rely on cruise control. Turn it off and pay attention to the road’s surface.
- Wet snow and icy roads limit traction. Adjust speed (I.E. slow down) to match conditions accordingly.
- Increase following distance with other vehicles to roughly three times the standard amount.
- If your vehicle feels like it is “floating” or has otherwise lost traction with the road’s surface, gradually slow down and gently tap the brakes. DO NOT slam on the breaks.
- Watch for patches of ice when changing elevation or approaching shaded corners.
- Check for signs of ice buildup before departing, such as on windshield wipers, side view mirrors, roads signs, trees, and fences.
- Blowing powder and dry snow can limit visibility, exacerbating icy conditions. Slow down and increase following distance when visibility is reduced.
- Do not drive through snowdrifts, even small ones, when possible. Even if your vehicle does not get stuck, it could spin out at high speeds.
To learn more about driving safely during winter, visit https://www.oregon.gov/odot/pages/winter-driving.aspx
Road conditions and closures across Oregon can be viewed at https://tripcheck.com/
