St. Louis, MO – Drivers across the St. Louis metro area are being urged to use extreme caution today after a rapid overnight temperature drop increased the risk of black ice on roadways, particularly on bridges and overpasses.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), some roads may appear wet but are actually frozen, creating hazardous driving conditions that are difficult to see until it is too late. Officials warn that black ice is especially dangerous during early morning and nighttime hours when pavement temperatures fall quickly.
MoDOT said crews are actively monitoring conditions and treating roads as needed, but drivers should still slow down, increase following distance, and plan for extra travel time. Bridges, ramps, and elevated roadways tend to freeze first and remain icy longer than surface streets.
The advisory impacts St. Louis City, St. Louis County, St. Charles County, and surrounding areas, with commuters heading toward downtown St. Louis and nearby interstates likely to encounter slick spots. No widespread closures were immediately reported, but officials caution that conditions can change quickly.
Drivers are encouraged to avoid sudden braking or sharp turns and to remain alert for changing road conditions, especially in shaded areas and along less-traveled routes. MoDOT also recommends checking real-time road conditions before heading out.
Up-to-date travel information, including road treatment updates and traffic conditions, is available through MoDOT’s traveler information system at traveler.modot.org.
Motorists are reminded that even short trips can become dangerous during rapid temperature drops, and patience behind the wheel can help prevent crashes during icy conditions.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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