Newark, NJ – Drivers across New Jersey should prepare for flash freeze conditions developing Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, as sharply colder air moves in behind a departing rain system. The National Weather Service says wet pavement could freeze quickly overnight, forming dangerous black ice on major routes including I-95, the Garden State Parkway, and the New Jersey Turnpike.
A flash freeze happens when temperatures fall below freezing in a short time, instantly icing over wet or slushy roads. Even when skies clear, these conditions can make pavement appear just damp while being extremely slick — particularly on bridges, ramps, and shaded areas.
Experts note that vehicles traveling 35 mph on icy pavement may require up to 600 feet to stop, compared to only 60–100 feet on dry roads. Drivers are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and avoid cruise control during the early morning hours.
“Even if precipitation has ended, black ice can still form fast,” the NWS said in a Tuesday evening update. “Plan for slick travel conditions during the Wednesday morning commute.”
Motorists across Essex, Bergen, and Middlesex Counties should expect slippery roads into midmorning Wednesday before conditions begin to improve.
