Providence, RI – With temperatures dropping below freezing and light snow moving into southern New England, officials are warning Rhode Island drivers — especially in Providence, Warwick, and Newport — to slow down on bridges and overpasses as icy conditions develop faster than on other roads this November.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), bridges freeze first because they’re exposed to cold air both above and below, allowing heat to escape more quickly from the pavement. This makes bridge surfaces reach the freezing point even while nearby roads remain slightly warmer.
The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) is pre-treating high-traffic bridges along I-95, Route 4, and the Claiborne Pell Bridge to help prevent dangerous icing as the state braces for subfreezing temperatures overnight.
Meteorologists say that black ice can form suddenly, especially before dawn and after sunset, making it nearly invisible to drivers. “It’s often mistaken for wet pavement,” an NWS spokesperson said. “Even a trace of ice can cause vehicles to lose traction instantly.”
RIDOT recommends drivers reduce speed before crossing bridges, avoid hard braking, and increase following distances. Crews will continue salting and monitoring key routes through the weekend as scattered snow showers move across the region.
Motorists can check live travel updates at RIDOT.ri.gov or 511RI for the latest conditions and treatment updates.
