Pittsburgh, PA – The National Weather Service in Pittsburgh has issued a cautionary alert for drivers as temperatures fall below freezing late tonight. With recent snowfall tapering off across western Pennsylvania, moisture left on the roads may refreeze and create hazardous patches of black ice, particularly north of Pittsburgh and in shaded or low-lying areas.
The concern is highest on bridges, overpasses, and untreated roads, where surface temperatures tend to drop more quickly. Officials warn that the ice forming tonight may be nearly invisible, making conditions especially risky for late-night and early-morning commuters.
What the Weather Service Says
According to early-evening guidance shared by the National Weather Service, colder air moving in after sunset will allow lingering moisture to freeze rapidly. The agency noted that these conditions are favorable for the development of thin, transparent ice commonly referred to as black ice.
The NWS emphasized that the threat is concentrated across northern Allegheny County, Butler County, Beaver County, and surrounding communities where snowfall was heavier earlier in the day. In its latest update, the agency stated, “Temperatures falling below freezing tonight may cause refreezing of wet surfaces, resulting in slick roads—especially on bridges and overpasses.”
Where Drivers Should Expect the Worst Conditions
Bridges and elevated surfaces cool faster than ground-level roads, allowing ice to form even when surrounding pavement appears clear. Overpasses, ramps, and untreated secondary roads are also at heightened risk.
Areas north of Pittsburgh, including Cranberry Township, Ross Township, Wexford, Slippery Rock, and Zelienople, may see the most persistent icing issues through early Monday morning.
How This Could Affect the Monday Morning Commute
With temperatures forecast to remain below freezing until shortly after sunrise, hazardous patches of black ice are likely to linger into the morning commute. Drivers heading out between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m. may encounter slick spots even on roads that appear dry.
Morning school traffic, work commuters, and commercial drivers are encouraged to build extra time into their schedules and check updated road conditions through 511PA, the state’s official travel information service.
Safety Steps Recommended for Drivers
To lower the risk of accidents, the NWS and local officials suggest adopting winter driving precautions, including:
- Slowing down on all roadways, especially bridges and shaded areas
- Avoiding sudden braking or sharp steering
- Leaving additional space between vehicles
- Using low-beam headlights to reduce glare and improve visibility
- Checking tires and windshield wipers before traveling early in the morning
Even a thin layer of black ice can significantly reduce traction, making it harder to stop, turn, or correct a skid.
Why Black Ice Is So Dangerous
Black ice forms when moisture freezes into a clear, thin glaze that blends in with the pavement. Because it looks identical to wet asphalt, drivers often don’t notice it until their vehicle begins to slide. This makes black ice one of the most dangerous winter driving hazards, particularly during nighttime and dawn hours.
Tonight’s rapid temperature drop after snowfall creates the perfect conditions for this stealthy hazard to develop across western Pennsylvania.
Looking Ahead
Temperatures are expected to rise slightly by Monday afternoon, reducing the threat of lingering ice. However, any additional snowfall or light precipitation overnight would increase the risk further. Residents are encouraged to monitor updates from the National Weather Service and local news outlets for evolving conditions.
Stay alert, plan ahead, and drive cautiously to stay safe during this period of freezing temperatures and patchy black ice.
Share your experiences or road conditions in the comments below.
