Officials warn drivers of black ice on roadways

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – The snow and sleet that coated the Lowcountry on Wednesday has refrozen, creating unsafe road conditions on Thursday morning.

Roadways are within the low 20s and teens early Thursday morning, any slush or snow yesterday has turned into dangerous black ice.

“It’s very slick and it’s transparent, you really can’t even see it,” said Meteorologist Grace Lowe.

Officials are asking residents not to drive unless absolutely necessary.

Corporal Nick Pye with the South Carolina Highway Patrol said, “DOT worked extremely hard last night clearing the interstate, clearing the bridges, making sure they’re good to drive for those that have to drive this morning – a little bit of concern with our secondary roads but we will address those as the morning goes along,”

The secondary roads are considered to be the most dangerous at this time as crews have not reached many of them yet. Especially at night, as black ice is hard to spot.

Officials are asking commuters to take their time to get to their destinations, increase their following distance, and limit any distractions.

Trooper Pye cautioned drivers that if they need to drive to clear off any snow or ice that is still on their vehicles.

“You have to clear that snow off your vehicle and off your windshield before you get out here it could be a distraction and it could be a flying hazard as well,” Trooper Pye added.

Storm Team 2 says a lot of melting can occur today as temperatures reach the upper 30s but a refreeze is possible again Friday morning. Creating the black ice hazard once again.

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