Milwaukee, WI – Drivers across southeast Wisconsin are being urged to use extreme caution early Tuesday morning as black ice may develop on untreated roads and sidewalks following overnight drizzle and falling temperatures.
According to the National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan, drizzle has ended early Tuesday, but temperatures are dropping to or below freezing, creating a flash freeze risk through sunrise. The threat is highest on untreated surfaces, including bridges, overpasses, and secondary roads, where moisture can freeze quickly and become nearly invisible.
Forecasters say the greatest potential for black ice is north and west of the Milwaukee metro area, where the probability of temperatures falling below 32 degrees reached 70 to 100 percent during the early morning hours. Areas closer to Lake Michigan may see a lower risk, but slick spots are still possible.
Light winds and lingering moisture increase the likelihood that icy patches could form rapidly, even in areas where roads appear wet rather than frozen. Patchy fog is also possible through daybreak, further reducing visibility in some locations.
The National Weather Service notes that conditions should gradually improve after 6 a.m. as temperatures rise above freezing. However, the Tuesday morning commute could still be impacted, particularly before sunrise.
Motorists are advised to slow down, increase following distance, and avoid sudden braking or turns. If travel is not necessary, delaying trips until later in the morning may reduce risk.
Residents should remain alert for black ice, which is difficult to see but can make roads extremely slippery in a matter of seconds.
