Portland, ME – Maine drivers should brace for a flash freeze threat developing Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, as forecasters warn of plunging temperatures and freezing road surfaces. According to the National Weather Service, melting snow and light rain earlier Tuesday could refreeze quickly overnight, creating dangerous black ice on highways including I-95, Route 1, and the Maine Turnpike.
A flash freeze occurs when pavement temperatures drop below freezing within a short period, instantly turning any surface moisture to ice. The risk is especially high when mild daytime conditions are followed by a rapid Arctic drop after sunset.
Weather officials note that a car traveling 35 mph on ice may need up to 600 feet to stop — roughly six times longer than on dry roads. Motorists are urged to reduce speed, increase following distance, and avoid sudden turns or braking during the early commute.
“Even though precipitation will end, any leftover water can freeze fast,” the NWS said in a Tuesday evening update. “Expect slick conditions by sunrise Wednesday, particularly on bridges and shaded routes.”
Drivers across Cumberland, York, and Androscoggin Counties should expect icy patches through late Wednesday morning before gradual improvement as temperatures rise slightly.
