This article explains why bridges and overpasses tend to freeze before roads during winter weather. It delves into the reasons behind this phenomenon, including exposure to the elements and the material properties of bridges and roads.
Snow-covered and icy roads can lead to treacherous and potentially deadly driving conditions when winter weather strikes across the U.S., but bridges and overpasses can be dangerous even if precipitation isn’t falling from the sky. If you've ever driven on bridges and overpasses in areas where winter weather occurs, you may have seen the bright yellow road signs warning drivers that it will become frozen before the road does. Here's why that happens.
There are a few reasons why bridges and overpasses will freeze before a road does. One of those reasons is that the entire bridge structure or overpass is exposed to the elements, whereas only a road’s surface is exposed to freezing temperatures. The animation above shows that cold air flows across the surface and encompasses the bridge, according to the National Weather Service. As it does, both the top of the bridge and under it will be exposed to frigid temperatures, leading to a frozen surface much faster than a road surface. Another reason why a bridge or overpass will freeze before a road is because of its construction materials, according to the Indiana Department of Transportation. Most bridges are built using metal, which is a great heat conductor. Heat within the bridge will quickly rise to the surface and freeze when it meets the frigid air above and below the structure. So, even if the bridge's surface looks clear, there could be slick spots on the road, making it extremely dangerous. On the other hand, roads are usually made with concrete and asphalt, which don’t conduct heat well. So, warmth beneath the surface of the road will stay there longer, and it won’t freeze as quickly as a bridge or overpass
BRIDGES OVERPASSES FREEZING WINTER WEATHER ROAD CONDITIONS
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
ALDOT, Mobile County target bridges and overpasses for pre-storm treatmentAlabama transportation worker and crews from Mobile County made final preparations Monday for a winter storm expected to hit Tuesday.
Read more »
STORMtracker ALERT: Extreme cold and treacherous driving this morning, some thawing expected todayDangerous driving conditions continue on bridges, overpasses, and shady areas this morning.
Read more »
San Francisco’s citywide hiring freeze is neither citywide nor a hiring freezeDepartments that do not draw from San Francisco's general fund are caught up in plans to tackle the city's massive general fund deficit. Why?
Read more »
Building Bridges That Last: Why Networking Will Define 2025Networking isn’t a skill, it’s your most valuable business strategy to stay relevant.
Read more »
Why Hugh Freeze is taking different approach to spring practice in 2025Freeze explained why Auburn football is starting spring practice later than usual
Read more »
Why Trump’s funding freeze is deepening fears that he seeks unlimited powerIt was the day that Donald Trump’s new strongman presidency crashed into reality.
Read more »