Albany, NY – Drivers across upstate New York are being warned to take extra care this Sunday morning as a flash freeze threatens to make travel conditions hazardous. The National Weather Service says temperatures dropped sharply overnight, likely causing wet pavement from Saturday’s snow and rain to freeze rapidly — creating black ice on major routes like I-90, I-87, and Route 9.
A flash freeze occurs when road surfaces cool below freezing in a short period of time, instantly turning any remaining moisture into ice. These quick freezes can make roads appear simply wet, but they are often slick enough to cause loss of control, especially at highway speeds.
On icy roads, stopping distances can increase nearly tenfold. A vehicle traveling 35 mph may need up to 600 feet to stop, compared to about 60–100 feet on dry pavement. Drivers are urged to reduce speed, avoid cruise control, and leave extra space between vehicles.
“Even if precipitation has ended, black ice can still form as temperatures tumble,” the NWS said in a Sunday morning statement. “Expect slippery spots on bridges, ramps, and shaded areas.”
Motorists across Albany, Saratoga, and Schenectady Counties should allow extra time for travel through late morning as conditions gradually improve.
