11/08/2026
BLACK ICE ON WINTER ROADS | ❄️ With bitterly cold weather, heavy rain and snow affecting parts of South Africa, winter road conditions are firmly back in the spotlight. And there’s one hazard motorists may not see coming: black ice. It’s more common in SA than you think, especially in inland and high-altitude regions.
Black ice isn’t black — it’s actually a thin, clear layer of ice that forms on the surface of the road, making it look just like wet tarmac. You often don’t know it’s there until you lose control. It reduces tyre friction by up to 70%!
Because black ice is nearly invisible and ultra-smooth, it offers almost no traction. Your tyres can lose grip in an instant and even experienced drivers may struggle to correct a skid.
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗱𝗼𝗲𝘀 𝗯𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺?
• On bridges and overpasses (they freeze first)
• In shaded or low-lying areas
• On early morning or late evening drives
• After light rain followed by a drop in temperature
• Common trouble spots include the KZN Midlands, Eastern Cape highlands, and Free State farmlands — especially on early winter mornings.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿
• The road looks wet, but there’s no spray from tyres
• You’re in a high-altitude area or temp has dipped below 4°C
• Frost on your windscreen in the morning? It could be on the road too.
• Tyres feel “loose” on an otherwise straight stretch
𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗱𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝗯𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗶𝗰𝗲
• Slow down. Don’t rush, even if the road looks clear.
• Avoid sudden moves. Brake, steer, and accelerate gently.
• Leave extra space. Braking takes longer.
• Keep headlights on — you’re more visible, and it may help spot slick patches.
• Never use cruise control on icy roads.
𝗠𝗜𝗪𝗔 𝘁𝗼𝗽 𝘁𝗶𝗽
Your tyres and brakes are your best protection against black ice. If your tyres are worn or under-inflated or your ABS or brake system hasn’t been checked recently, you’re more vulnerable. Safety doesn’t come from luck — it comes from being ready. Even minor tyre or brake issues can have serious consequences when stopping distances double on ice. We’re here to help: https://vist.ly/5ebit
A winter safety check at a MIWA-accredited workshop includes:
• Tyre tread and pressure inspection
• Brake pad, disc, and ABS system check
• Battery and fluid checks
• Light and wiper blade inspection
• Helping you catch problems before they catch you.
💬 Have you ever hit black ice before? What did you learn — or wish you’d known?
