Richmond, VA – Virginia motorists are being urged to prepare for flash freeze conditions developing Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, as temperatures fall rapidly behind a passing cold front. The National Weather Service says lingering rain and melting snow could freeze within hours, forming dangerous black ice on highways including I-95, I-64, and US-29.
A flash freeze occurs when pavement temperatures plunge below freezing in a short period, instantly icing over wet surfaces. These sudden freezes often follow mild daytime weather, catching late-night and early-morning commuters off guard.
Experts warn that on icy pavement, a vehicle traveling 35 mph may require up to 600 feet to stop — nearly six times the normal distance on dry roads. Drivers are urged to slow down, avoid cruise control, and leave extra following distance to stay safe.
“Even when skies are clear, residual moisture can freeze quickly,” the NWS said in a Tuesday night advisory. “Expect slick conditions during the Wednesday morning commute, especially on bridges and shaded roads.”
Motorists across Henrico, Chesterfield, and Fairfax Counties should expect freezing conditions through midmorning Wednesday before gradual improvement as sunlight returns.
