Freezing Drizzle Could Create Hazardous Thursday Morning Commute Around Spokane
SPOKANE, WASHINGTON — Residents across Spokane County are being urged to use extra caution overnight into Thursday morning, as forecasters warn of freezing drizzle and fog developing across the region. The combination could create slick roads and icy walking surfaces, particularly during the early commute hours.
According to local weather officials, areas most at risk include Spokane, Medical Lake, Airway Heights, and Liberty Lake, where temperatures are expected to hover near or just below freezing.
Overnight Conditions Could Freeze Roads and Walkways
Light precipitation will begin as drizzle late tonight, but as surface temperatures drop, it may freeze on contact, creating a thin layer of ice on untreated surfaces. This could impact roadways, sidewalks, decks, and stairs, making morning travel hazardous.
“Drivers should wake up early and allow extra time for their morning commute,” meteorologists advised. “Even small amounts of freezing drizzle can create black ice that’s difficult to see until it’s too late.”
Areas of Concern and Timing
The greatest impacts are expected between 2 a.m. and 9 a.m. Thursday, when freezing fog and drizzle are most likely. Motorists traveling through northern valleys and low-lying areas may also encounter limited visibility due to fog.
Local authorities recommend slowing down on bridges and overpasses, which tend to freeze first, and using caution when stepping outside early in the day.
What’s Next
By mid to late morning, temperatures are expected to rise just enough to melt some of the early ice, but patchy slick spots could persist through the morning. The rest of Thursday will remain mostly cloudy and cool, with highs near 35°F.
Residents should continue to monitor weather updates and check road conditions before heading out.
Stay with NapervilleLocal.com for more updates on weather advisories and local conditions in your area.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.