While you may have seen some ice beginning to melt on the roadways Tuesday, many of those same spots have now refrozen—creating patches of black ice.
The Weather Channel describes black ice as a thin coat of highly transparent ice that is nearly impossible to see as it blends in with the pavement. Due to the prescience of these highly dangerous conditions in 68 counties, you’re urged to limit non-essential travel for the time being.
There are currently reports of ice on roads and bridges in 68 MS counties.
With another round of #winterweather expected to pass through MS today, please continue to STAY OFF THE ROADS. Stay home & stay warm!
Check current road conditions at https://t.co/YpM4Q4YH51. #mswx pic.twitter.com/g9Q0UvqJ95
— MDOT (@MississippiDOT) February 17, 2021
We’re urging everyone to stay home this morning, but if you have to get on the roads for essential travel then please use extreme caution! Widespread black ice formed overnight across areas where melting occurred yesterday making driving conditions very dangerous. pic.twitter.com/KH5h8mhjoj
— msema (@MSEMA) February 17, 2021
For the latest road closures and traffic updates – click here.
Avoid all non-essential travel and if you must drive, MDOT provides the following tips:
- Remember, ice will form on bridges and overpasses quicker than the road.
- Slow down; should winter weather conditions become present, black ice can form.
- Allow more space between the vehicles around you.
- Brake early and gently to avoid skidding, and never slam on the brakes.
- Avoid distractions, such as talking or texting on a cell phone.
- Stay alert
