Drivers in Bean Station got a chilly wake-up call Thursday morning as police warned that those dark, shiny spots on the pavement were not just leftover rain, but could be black ice with temperatures hovering around freezing. Motorists were urged to ease off the gas, leave extra room between vehicles, and skip the sudden braking or sharp turns, especially in the early hours when any lingering moisture can refreeze. Untreated back roads, overpasses, and shaded stretches were singled out as the most likely places to turn slick during the morning commute.
The alert went out in a Facebook post from the Bean Station Police Department, which reminded residents that dark or glossy patches on the roadway "could be ice even if the road looks wet." With temperatures stuck near the freezing mark, officers urged extra caution for the early commute. The department said drivers should slow down, increase following distance, and avoid sudden maneuvers while crews keep an eye on changing conditions. At the time of the post, no major incidents had been reported, but residents were encouraged to keep checking for updates.
NWS: Patchy Black Ice Possible Through The Morning
The National Weather Service office in Morristown backed up the local warning with a special weather statement early Thursday, noting that "Patchy black ice can be expected on roadways into this morning" as temperatures drop into the 20s and freeze any residual moisture. Forecasters highlighted untreated secondary roads and overpasses as higher-risk spots and urged drivers to be ready for slick areas. Full details are available from the National Weather Service in Morristown.
How To Stay Safe On Icy Roads
If you have to be out, officials advise checking real-time road conditions through Tennessee 511 (TNSmartWay) and postponing any nonessential trips when possible, according to the Tennessee Department of Transportation. State guidance stresses slowing down, giving yourself more stopping distance, and avoiding sudden braking or abrupt turns, since bridges and shaded areas freeze first, as outlined by the North Carolina DOT. If your vehicle starts to slide, experts recommend gently steering into the skid and braking in a controlled way, while keeping a charged phone and basic emergency kit on hand. Lower speeds and a little extra time built into the commute can go a long way toward avoiding crashes on untreated roads.
Officials said the Facebook alert will be updated as conditions change, and residents are urged to follow the Bean Station Police Department page for the latest local information. For broader forecasts and travel advisories, drivers can consult the National Weather Service and check 511 before heading out.
