Seattle, WA – As a surge of Arctic air combines with freezing rain and snow this season, transportation officials are warning drivers in Seattle, Spokane, and Tacoma to watch for bridges and overpasses icing over before ground-level roadways.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) Seattle, bridges freeze first because they are surrounded by cold air on all sides, allowing heat to dissipate more quickly. “That’s why bridges can become icy even when nearby roads are just wet,” the agency explained. “It’s one of the most common causes of winter crashes.”
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) regularly deploy crews along I-5, I-90, and Highway 2, applying brine and salt to key bridge decks and elevated ramps. Officials warn that gusty winds and patchy freezing drizzle could cause black ice formation across both western and eastern Washington overnight.
Motorists are urged to slow down before bridges, avoid sudden braking or acceleration, and maintain extra following distance. Even a thin layer of frost can cause vehicles to lose traction instantly, particularly on shaded or elevated sections.
Drivers can monitor real-time travel and weather updates via wsdot.com/traffic or by following @wsdot for regional winter alerts.
