Overnight refreezing makes for a dangerous Thursday commute

On January 23, 2025By Littum

CHARLESTON, SC (WCSC) – Melting sleet and snow refroze overnight Wednesday and have left the cause of dangerous road conditions Thursday morning.

The biggest concern from the refreeze is black ice, a thin layer of ice that can form on roads and bridges that is usually difficult, if not impossible, for motorists to see.

Live 5 First Alert meteorologist Stephanie Sine says motorists who were able to get where they were going through the sloppy mix on the roads mid-morning Wednesday may have a false sense of security Thursday morning.

“If they got around okay on Wednesday, the water will be completely frozen in the morning,” she said.

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office offered the following tips for staying safe behind the wheel:

Slow down: Reduce your speed and leave plenty of space between you and the car in front of you.
Brake carefully: Avoid slamming on the brakes, which can cause skidding.
Use low gears: Low gears help maintain traction, especially on hills.
Increase visibility: Turn on your lights and keep your windshield clean.
Be careful on bridges and overpasses: These areas freeze first.
Do not use cruise control or overdrive: These features can be dangerous on icy roads.
Take it easy: Avoid sudden movements and do not panic.
Wear your seat belt: This will help keep you safe in the event of an accident.

Several law enforcement agencies across the Tri-County reported problems with ice on roads Wednesday.

The Arthur Ravenel Bridge was closed for most of Wednesday morning due to ice. The Ashley River Bridges were also closed for hours Wednesday. Both the Ravenel and Ashley River Bridges have since reopened, but moisture on the roadways could cause additional closures if it freezes.

The James Island Connector was also closed due to icy conditions.

The bridges leading to and from Folly Beach were closed in light of the icy conditions.

Just before noon Wednesday, Charleston Police announced that the Ravenel Bridge had partially… — Just before noon Wednesday, Charleston Police announced that the Ravenel Bridge had partially reopened.(SCDOT)

In Berkeley County, authorities reported icy conditions for the Don Holt Bridge and portions of I-26 and SC Highway 6.

In Dorchester County, motorists on the Berlin G. Meyers Parkway and portions of US Highway 17-Alternate faced icy conditions, including some reports of black ice.

Click here to monitor live traffic conditions throughout the country.

Monitor traffic conditions across the Tri-County area by clicking this link to Charleston County roads, this link to Berkeley County and this link to Dorchester County.