Kentucky State Police Warn Drivers That Black Ice Will Return Tonight as Temperatures Fall Below Freezing

FRANKFORT, KY — After Tuesday night’s snowfall cleared from Kentucky roads, state troopers say drivers should brace for another round of dangerous black ice as temperatures fall again this evening. Melted snow and wet pavement are expected to refreeze, creating nearly invisible hazards on some of the state’s busiest commuter routes.

Melting Snow Will Refreeze Overnight

Kentucky State Trooper Corey King said the biggest danger tonight will come from roads that appear clear but hide thin, transparent layers of ice.

“The first place you’ll always see freeze over first… Audubon Parkway, the Twin Bridges, as well as the 60 Bypass in Owensboro — and it held true today,” King said.

Despite extensive work by Kentucky transportation crews, King warned that sunshine and daytime melting will lead to a fast freeze once temperatures dip after sunset.

“With a little bit of that sun popping out and that thermal melt, you’ll see a little bit of that water freeze over again tonight,” he said.

Officials Urge Drivers to Slow Down

Trooper King emphasized that speed remains the number one cause of winter crashes, no matter the season.

“The number one factor in wrecks — whether it’s summertime, fall, or winter — is speed. Speed is the number one factor in wrecks. Slow down,” King said.

Drivers are advised to treat any dark, glossy patches on the roadway as potential black ice, especially on bridges, overpasses, and untreated spots.

Check Road Conditions Before Leaving Home

King urged Kentuckians to monitor live road conditions both before heading out and heading home. The state’s real-time traffic website shows which roadways are experiencing freezing, crashes, or delays.

“If you go to our state’s website at goky.ky.gov you can see in real time what the issues are with every road in the state,” King said.

Stay Inside Your Vehicle If Trouble Occurs

To avoid becoming a hazard to other drivers, King said motorists should remain inside their cars if they slide off the road or experience mechanical issues.

Wintry weather often makes people harder to see, especially at night.

Tire Tread Is the First Line of Defense

Trooper King stressed that one of the most important safety measures is making sure your vehicle’s tires have sufficient tread.

“It’s literally the only thing sticking you to the road,” he said.

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