Rising Black Ice Threat Amidst Fluctuating Winter Temperatures | Be Korea-savvy

Rising Black Ice Threat Amidst Fluctuating Winter Temperatures


At approximately 5:15 a.m. on January 14, 2025, a 44-vehicle pileup occurred near the Gusan Interchange on Jayu-ro in Ilsanseo-gu, Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, in the Paju direction. The collision involved trucks, buses, and passenger cars. (Image provided by the Gyeonggi Northern Fire and Disaster Headquarters)

At approximately 5:15 a.m. on January 14, 2025, a 44-vehicle pileup occurred near the Gusan Interchange on Jayu-ro in Ilsanseo-gu, Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, in the Paju direction. The collision involved trucks, buses, and passenger cars. (Image provided by the Gyeonggi Northern Fire and Disaster Headquarters)

SEOUL, Jan. 15 (Korea Bizwire) —On January 14, 2025, a 44-vehicle pileup occurred on Jayu-ro in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, attributed to black ice—a thin, nearly invisible layer of ice on roadways that poses significant hazards to drivers.

Black ice forms when moisture on the road surface freezes under specific conditions, such as when daytime temperatures above freezing drop below zero at night or early morning.

This phenomenon is particularly prevalent during periods of fluctuating temperatures, not solely during severe cold spells. Contributing factors include rain or melted snow seeping into asphalt cracks and refreezing, as well as fog adhering to and freezing on road surfaces.

 

Additionally, freezing rain—liquid precipitation that freezes upon contact with cold surfaces—can create black ice, especially when ground temperatures are below freezing while the air above is warmer.

Certain areas are more susceptible to black ice formation, including bridges, tunnels, and shaded regions where sunlight is limited. Roads treated with de-icing agents like calcium chloride may also remain damp longer, increasing the risk.

Geographically, basins surrounded by mountains experience rapid overnight cooling, making them prone to black ice. The danger is most acute during early morning hours, particularly between 6 and 8 a.m., when temperatures are at their lowest.

Statistics from the Korea Road Traffic Authority indicate that over the past five years, there have been 4,609 traffic accidents due to black ice, resulting in 107 deaths and 7,728 injuries. Notably, more than 70% of these accidents occurred between December and January, with a fatality rate approximately 1.5 times higher than accidents on non-icy roads.

Given the forecasted drop in temperatures following recent precipitation, conditions are favorable for black ice formation, particularly during morning commutes. Authorities advise drivers to exercise heightened caution, reduce speeds, and remain vigilant for potential black ice, especially in known high-risk areas.

Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)

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