New York, New York – Drivers across the region are urged to slow down this morning as temperatures fall below freezing, producing widespread black ice on untreated roads and sidewalks from northeast New Jersey to southern Connecticut and across Long Island. Even trace moisture left behind from recent precipitation may freeze on contact, creating nearly invisible hazards along I-95, I-87, the Long Island Expressway (I-495), and commuter routes through the Lower Hudson Valley.
According to the National Weather Service in New York, temperatures are expected to remain below freezing through the early morning hours, allowing icy patches to persist through the morning commute. The greatest impacts are expected across Northern Fairfield, Northern New Haven, Northern Middlesex, Northern New London, Western Passaic, Orange, Putnam, Northeast Suffolk, and Southeast Suffolk counties. Black ice could form on shaded areas, bridge decks, neighborhood streets, parking lots, and driveway surfaces.
Motorists should anticipate sudden slick spots, especially when turning, braking, or merging from on-ramps onto I-87 and the Hutchinson River Parkway. Even small patches of ice can cause a vehicle to lose traction without warning. Pedestrians should also use caution on untreated walkways.
Conditions will slowly improve by late morning as temperatures climb above freezing, but isolated slick surfaces may linger longer in northern and inland areas. Commuters should plan for extended travel times and check transit updates as delays are possible where icy conditions affect bus routes and station platforms.
Another update will be issued if temperatures remain colder than expected or if additional freezing develops beyond the morning period.
