With cooler temperatures, especially in the early morning hours, the Minnesota Department of Transportation strongly urges drivers in the Arrowhead Region to be especially alert for “black ice,” which can rapidly develop during cold temperatures.
Black ice is really invisible ice. It is almost totally transparent and can easily catch drivers off guard. It forms in cold weather when the air temperature is just slightly warmer than the pavement, which causes moisture to rapidly freeze, creating a very thin layer of ice on the roadway.
Black ice can form on heavily congested highways from auto exhaust emissions, tire friction and moisture vapors given off by industries located adjacent to the highway. In addition, black ice often forms on roadways in shaded areas, near lakes and rivers, in tunnels, and on overpasses. Although salt and sand can help minimize the effects of black ice, road salt loses its effectiveness at temperatures lower than 15 degrees.
According to Mn/DOT, motorists can increase their personal margin of safety by observing the following tips: Be aware that black ice is almost invisible and can form on asphalt or concrete pavements; be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and tunnels and in the early morning; do not use cruise control during winter driving conditions; use a safe speed for winter driving conditions, regardless of the posted speed limit; keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you; refrain from using a cell phone while driving, and remember that texting is prohibited while driving in Minnesota.
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