Cold Weather Snap Sparks Black Ice Risk Across Triad

News Desk 

The National Weather Service offices in Raleigh and Roanoke have issued a Winter Weather Advisory for the Piedmont Triad, warning citizens of potentially hazardous travel conditions Friday night due to black ice and freezing fog.

The advisory comes as the region deals with the final phase of a southern storm system that delivered mixed precipitation early Friday—snow for some, but mostly cold rain for many.

Although the system moved through quickly, lingering moisture combined with falling temperatures is creating the risk of icy roads.

A Storm with Limits

Meteorologists say Friday’s storm was never expected to become a significant snow event for the Triad. While colder air filtered into the region, it arrived too late to produce widespread snowfall. By the time temperatures neared freezing Friday evening, most precipitation had already ended.

Light sleet did fall in parts of the Piedmont Triad late Thursday into early Friday, but with temperatures still in the upper 30s and low 40s at the time, no travel disruptions occurred.

Black Ice Risk as Temperatures Drop

The wettest period passed early Friday, but damp roads and chilly, moisture-rich air have created conditions favorable for patchy fog and refreezing. With temperatures continuing to fall into the low and mid-30s, forecasters warn that slick spots—especially on bridges, overpasses, and elevated roadways—may develop overnight.

“Once temperatures hit 32 degrees or below, elevated surfaces freeze first, and that’s where black ice becomes a concern,” meteorologists noted.

Friday Night Into Saturday: What to Expect

Afternoon temperatures will remain in the low-to-mid 30s, with fog potentially keeping readings on the lower side. After sunset, the risk of icy patches increases as wet roads refreeze. Residents planning early Saturday travel may experience delays due to lingering slick conditions.

Saturday morning temperatures are expected to hover in the lower 30s before gradually rising above freezing as a westerly breeze develops. Sunshine through midday should help melt any icy spots.

Looking Ahead to the Weekend

Sunshine and warmer temperatures on Sunday are expected to melt remaining snow on grassy surfaces and any wintry mix in the Northern Piedmont. However, areas in the Foothills and Mountains—where measurable snowfall occurred—may remain wet or icy longer.

Authorities urge drivers to use caution, reduce speed, and remain alert to changing conditions overnight and early Saturday.