Concord, NH – New Hampshire motorists are urged to drive with caution Tuesday night into Wednesday morning as a flash freeze threatens to create dangerous black ice across much of the state. The National Weather Service says wet roads from Tuesday’s rain and melting snow may refreeze rapidly overnight, especially along I-93, Route 3, and the Everett Turnpike.
A flash freeze occurs when temperatures drop below freezing within a short period, turning wet surfaces into ice almost instantly. These quick freezes can make roads appear just damp while actually being extremely slick — a leading cause of early-morning spinouts and crashes.
According to experts, a vehicle traveling 35 mph on icy pavement can require up to 600 feet to stop, compared to just 60–100 feet on dry roads. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, leave extra following distance, and avoid cruise control overnight and early Wednesday.
“Even after precipitation ends, moisture can refreeze quickly,” the NWS said in a Tuesday night advisory. “Expect black ice on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas.”
Motorists across Merrimack, Hillsborough, and Rockingham Counties should expect slippery travel through midmorning Wednesday as temperatures stay below freezing.
