Raleigh, NC – Drivers across North Carolina are being warned of possible flash freeze conditions from Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, as sharply colder air moves in following a day of rain. The National Weather Service says leftover surface moisture could freeze within hours, creating dangerous black ice on key routes including I-40, I-85, and US-64.
A flash freeze occurs when pavement temperatures plunge below freezing in a short time, turning wet roads into slick, nearly invisible ice. The risk is highest on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas, where temperatures drop first.
Experts warn that a vehicle traveling 35 mph on icy pavement can need up to 600 feet to stop — about six times longer than on dry roads. Motorists are advised to reduce speed, avoid cruise control, and allow extra space between vehicles.
“Even if the rain ends early, roads can freeze fast once temperatures dip,” the NWS said in a Tuesday evening advisory. “Plan for slick travel during the Wednesday morning commute.”
Drivers across Wake, Guilford, and Mecklenburg Counties should expect icy patches through midmorning Wednesday before gradual improvement with daylight and road treatments.
