**East Texas Roads Remain Hazardous Despite Warming Trend; Refreeze Expected Tonight**
EAST TEXAS – While East Texas residents may experience a slight reprieve with thawing temperatures expected to reach the 40s later today, January 27th, authorities warn that hazardous road conditions, particularly black ice, will persist and intensify overnight.
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) continues to urge drivers to avoid unnecessary travel across East Texas roadways. For those who must venture out, extreme caution is advised due to the continued presence of ice and the immediate threat of black ice, especially on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas. A Hard Freeze Warning remains in effect until 10 AM this morning, January 27th, underscoring the ongoing danger.
Forecasters predict that temperatures will drop below freezing again tonight, January 27th, with lows expected to be in the 20s by Wednesday morning, January 28th. Any melted ice from today's warmer temperatures will refreeze, creating new patches of black ice and exacerbating the already dangerous driving conditions.
TxDOT officials emphasize the critical importance of reducing speed significantly and maintaining ample following distance to prevent accidents. Drivers should remain vigilant for slick spots that may not be immediately visible.

