Greenwich residents should proceed with ‘extreme caution’ Monday night due to black ice

The town is warning residents to proceed with extreme caution due to the condition of Greenwichs roads on Monday night.

Using the towns reverse 911 system, Greenwich Police Department Capt. Mark Kordick warned residents that evening temperatures are predicted to drop well below freezing Monday night. Melting snow from Monday afternoons warm temperatures and rainfall have left many walkways and roadways wet and, because of that, dangerous driving conditions will be present when roadways freeze over and so-called black ice forms.

Capt. Kordick said that there is also significant potential for ice accumulations on walkways, sidewalks and outdoor steps and stairs. On Sunday, black ice was a severe problem throughout the county as Greenwich experienced similar conditions from a freezing rain event. Capt. Kordick said that, many motor vehicle collisions and slip and fall injuries some serious were reported.

Greenwichs temperatures are predicted to fall below 32 degrees a few hours after dark on Monday night and remain below freezing all day Tuesday. Because of that, the town is advising all residents to exercise extreme caution if moving about outdoors or driving especially after 7:00 p.m. Monday night.

Capt. Kordick said that frail and elderly, people who are unsteady on their feet or those who are mobility impaired will want to exercise special care in icy environments.

Beyond the potential for icing conditions, bitterly cold temperatures tonight and tomorrow will represent a danger to those outside without proper clothing, Capt. Kordick said. Rapid temperature drops can also negatively affect underground water mains, pipes in buildings and other infrastructure. Please be wary of these dangers.

Capt. Kordick said that all of the towns public safety agencies are fully staffed and prepared for what could be a significant freezing event during the overnight period. Public works crews were out Monday afternoon treating roadways Capt. Kordick they will remain on the job through the night.

Even so, drivers should make every effort to get off the roads by early evening and everyone should use extra care when moving about outdoors after temperatures drop below freezing, Capt. Kordick said.

Check Greenwich-post.com and Twitter.com/Greenwichpost for more information if it becomes available.

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Greenwich residents should proceed with ‘extreme caution’ Monday night due to black ice