Is cobblestone ice on North Texas roads as snow melts? Here’s what to know
As ice melts and refreezes in North Texas, there’s a chance for “cobblestone ice.”
Much of the region is seeing above-freezing temperatures for the first time in days on Tuesday, Jan. 27. Combined with warmer temperatures, and the sun poking out, parts of the Metroplex are thawing out after the winter storm.
However, whatever melts will refreeze again overnight Tuesday as subfreezing temperatures return.
One of the things that could appear during this process is “cobblestone ice.” Here’s what to know about it.
What is ‘cobblestone ice?’
In 2013, North Texans battled “cobblestone ice” on several streets and highways.
This occurrence came from a mix of factors like tire compaction, melting/re-freezing and sand treatment on roadways. The combination produced “cobblestone ice,” which the NWS describes as frozen precipitation that was reformed into rock hard formations.
Is there ‘cobblestone ice’ in North Texas?
NWS meteorologist Brennen Darrah said he’s “sure it’s out there,” but the weather office has not received any official reports of “cobblestone ice.”
As far as road conditions go, Darrah said secondary roads are the main areas of caution right now. This is because these roads are less traveled on, and local/county resources tend to first focus on primary roads like interstates and highways.
Secondary roads inlcude alleyways, parking lots, neighborhood streets and any non-major roadway. Darrah said the NWS is asking folks to stay safe on these roads.
