What is Black Ice?

What is Black Ice?

Story Published: Jan 6, 2003 at 11:30 AM PST

Story Updated: Mar 13, 2008 at 1:13 PM PST

By Steve Pool

SEATTLE - Black ice is a term frequently given to roadway ice. It forms the same way any other ice does -- when temperatures drop below freezing and earlier rains or melted snow freeze. But if the ice is clear, it looks invisible against the black road surface -- thus the term "black ice."

When you have what looks like a dry road surface, but it appears darker in color and more dull-looking, that's at least a indication that black ice might be present.

If you find yourself in a black ice situation, it can take as much as three-times the normal distance to stop. So be sure to allow extra stopping distance. Also, while SUV's tend to help you accelerate better in icy conditions, they're just as tough to stop as smaller cars on ice.

For More Information:

Black Ice -- www.webworldinc.com.

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