"Icy Road Warnings - Central Districts - Central"

Motorists are urged to prepare for icy roads and reminded to drive to the conditions. With today's clearer weather and overnight temperatures expected to plummet, Central District Police is preparing for some icy road conditions this evening, overnight and stretching on into mid morningThursday.

They are encouraging drivers to be equally prepared. "When a clear cold day follows a day of rain, surplus moisture on the roads will freeze over and there is a high probability for black ice," says Central District Road Policing Manager, acting Inspector Nigel Allan.

"Motorists, particularly those overnight such as long haul drivers and early morning commuters, will need to take extreme care.

Keep a wary eye out for any patches on the road that appear wet will likely be ice and should be treated as such." Higher locations such as Saddle Road, Pahiatua Track, Mount Bruce and Norsewood are expecting snow. Driving to the conditions is key; firstly give yourself more than the usual time to get to your destination, keep speeds down and allowing plenty of stopping distance.

Motorists are advised to check their vehicles and tyres are roadworthy before heading off, and ensure all windows are completely clear of ice.

It is also advisable to ensure drivers carry a fully charged mobile phone and have a blanket, snacks and water on hand in case of an emergency or a breakdown.

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