Mount Vernon, IL – Spotty black ice is expected to create hazardous driving conditions early Wednesday across southern Illinois and surrounding areas. Refreezing precipitation from earlier snow showers has made untreated roads and bridges particularly slick.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), light snow showers late Tuesday combined with freezing temperatures overnight have resulted in treacherous patches of black ice. Drivers are urged to slow down and exercise extreme caution, especially on secondary roads and bridges that may not have been treated. Sidewalks and parking lots could also be slippery for pedestrians.
Weather Outlook for Thursday and the Week Ahead
Conditions will improve by Wednesday afternoon as temperatures rise above freezing. However, colder air is set to return overnight into Thursday, with lows dropping into the teens. Thursday will remain cold and mostly dry, with daytime highs struggling to exceed 30 degrees.
A slight warm-up is expected by Friday, with temperatures climbing into the upper 30s, but another cold front is likely over the weekend, bringing a chance of light snow Saturday evening into Sunday morning. Accumulations should remain light, but drivers should prepare for possible slick spots during early weekend travel.
Safety Precautions
The NWS advises motorists to check road conditions before traveling and keep an emergency kit in their vehicles. Residents should wear appropriate footwear to avoid slips and falls on icy walkways.
For updates on road conditions, visit the Illinois Department of Transportation’s traveler information site at gettingaroundillinois.com. Stay tuned to local forecasts for any changes in the weather pattern.
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