North Texas woke up on Friday to wet and potentially slippery roads due to low temperatures hovering around freezing. Although temperatures were expected to rise above freezing later in the morning, the initial conditions were already impacting traffic.
Early on, the roads appeared clear without major issues, but as the morning progressed and more vehicles hit the road, problems began to arise. According to police departments across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, 324 accidents and other incidents were reported on Friday morning.
One of the most problematic areas was the High Five interchange at U.S. 75 and I-635 in Dallas, where drivers had to slow down significantly to navigate the highway ramps. Vehicles struggled to gain traction, sliding and slipping as they drove, causing significant traffic congestion in that area.
Michael Rey, spokesperson for the North Texas Tollway Authority (NTTA), stated that their crews were “pretty busy” overnight with convoy plow operations to clear major highways, including the Dallas North Tollway, President George Bush Turnpike, and Sam Rayburn Tollway. However, moisture still remained on the roads, continuing to pose a risk for drivers.
Caution on Elevated Surfaces and Black Ice
Rey also warned of the dangers posed by elevated surfaces such as bridges, ramps, and overpasses, which are more likely to accumulate moisture and become slippery. “Although efforts to clear the roads have been made, the combination of moisture and low temperatures remains a dangerous factor,” he said.
One of the main concerns is “black ice,” a thin and nearly invisible layer of ice that forms when moisture on the road freezes. This layer can be particularly difficult for drivers to detect, increasing the risk of accidents. Black ice can create slippery patches on colder surfaces like bridges and ramps, requiring extra caution when driving.
Road Safety: Tips for Drivers
Safety officials and traffic experts urge drivers to take additional precautions while temperatures continue to hover around freezing. Some key recommendations include:
- Reduce Speed: Keep your speed much lower than usual, especially when crossing bridges or ramps.
- Maintain Distance: Leave more space between your vehicle and others, as braking distances can be longer on slippery roads.
- Avoid Sudden Braking: Apply brakes gently to avoid skidding, especially in areas where black ice is suspected.
- Check the Forecast: Before heading out, check the weather forecast and traffic conditions. Local authorities and the NTTA recommend monitoring real-time road conditions.
- Stay Alert: Keep a constant focus while driving, watching for any signs of hazardous conditions such as icy patches or snow accumulation along the roadside.
Maintenance Crews’ Action Plans
NTTA crews will continue working overnight into Saturday to treat the roads, especially those most affected by sub-zero temperatures. Authorities are also prepared to deploy additional crews if necessary to maintain safety on major tollways and highways.
Traffic Impact and Alternative Routes
Traffic in key areas, such as the High Five interchange, has already begun causing significant delays, and some drivers have been forced to seek alternative routes. Authorities urge travelers to stay informed about road conditions through real-time updates and navigation apps.
As temperatures continue to fluctuate and winter weather remains in the region, authorities are closely monitoring the situation and asking North Texas residents to exercise extreme caution while traveling on the roads.
Conclusion
Friday morning in North Texas served as a reminder of the dangers of winter conditions. While maintenance teams are diligently working to clear the roads, the persistent moisture and low temperatures still pose a considerable risk to drivers. The main recommendation remains caution, especially on elevated surfaces, and constant monitoring of weather and traffic conditions.
