01/16/2024 6:29 pm (current 01/16/2024 7:32 pm)
Warning: There is an increased risk of black ice on Wednesday. ©VOL.AT/Steurer; Canva; APA;
An increased risk of black ice on roads in Vorarlberg is expected on Wednesday. Drive carefully!
On Wednesday morning there will be a lot of rain, with the snowfall limit rising to 1,500 to 2,000 meters. When transitioning from snow to rain, you have to go for it increased risk of black ice be calculated. At the same time, a strong southerly wind is blowing over Rätikon, which is increasingly drying the air in the southern parts of the country, while in the north there may still be showers in the afternoon. With highs of 5 to almost 10 degrees, it will be mild for the time of year.
Attention passengers: city of Lindau issues warning
The city of Lindau also warns all citizens about freezing rain with heavy ice formation and refers to the warning from the German Weather Service. Despite the strict measures, slippery conditions are expected on roads, as well as sidewalks and cycle paths.
In addition to slippery roads, traveling on secondary roads can be very dangerous. Branches and small trees can bend due to ice, ice sheets or icicles can slide off or break roofs of houses or trees, warns the city of Lindau and recommends for the warning period: Avoid driving or cycling as much as possible and do not park or park due to the risk of broken branches. Take walks in the forest. Because of falling ice, you should stay away from roofs and house facades and avoid ice-covered trees.
When can dangerous black ice form?
“Dangerous black ice can form not only at temperatures below freezing, but also at temperatures just above freezing,” warns Roland Frisch, chief automobile instructor at ÖAMTC driving technology. This means driving at an appropriately adjusted speed, as the braking distance on a slippery road is often significantly underestimated. “At 130 km/h, the pure braking distance on a slippery road is 435 meters. This is many times more than on a dry road (60-70 meters),” says Frisch impressively. “If you can drive at 100 km/h on a dry, open road in good conditions, you have to reduce vehicle speed by 30% in wet conditions to have the same braking distance. In the case of a snowy road, you have to reduce the speed by half – and on ice you have to drive 70% slower so that the braking distance remains as short as on dry land.”
Tips from ÖAMTC experts for safe driving in snow, mud and ice
- Allow more travel time. “If you are stressed, you make mistakes. This is why you should generally plan for more time in winter, and any snow or ice scraping needs to be taken into account,” says Frisch.
- Increase the distance and reduce speed, avoid overtaking maneuvers.
- Drive, brake and accelerate sensitively. “When cornering or changing lanes, sudden steering maneuvers can cause the vehicle to swerve,” warns the chief driving technology instructor at ÖAMTC.
- If you skid: “Leave your foot off the accelerator, disengage the clutch and drive in the direction of travel – in vehicles with automatic transmission there is no need to disengage. In vehicles with ABS (anti-lock braking system) you can brake and turn at the same time “, explains the professional. A rule of thumb is: wherever you look, you direct.
- Be especially careful with weaker road users: “In the local area, you should drive especially carefully, especially on protective routes, bus stops or on the way to school”, recommends Roland Frisch.
- Choose the right route: Main roads are cleared of snow better and faster than secondary roads – you are safer on the road and make better progress. In extreme weather conditions, it is advisable to postpone your trip if possible.
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