Why do roads get so slick in Sacramento rain? Here’s what to look out for and how to respond
As rain continues to fall in the Sacramento area, forecasters are cautioning motorists of slick roads.
Motor oil leaks from cars onto roads and driveways. Meteorologist Anna Wanless with the National Weather Service said because the current rain spell is the most precipitation the region has recorded since December, there’s a significant amount of oil being mixed with rain.
“People aren’t necessarily comfortable driving in the rain, especially if it’s been awhile,” she said. “So just give yourself extra time to get to work...expect a longer commute home as well.”
Driving tips from the DMV
Rain, coupled with speeds of 50 mph or more can result in your tires losing contact with the road, according to the Department of Motor Vehicles’ California Driver Handbook. Drive up to 10 mph slower.
“Slow down at the first sign of rain, especially after a dry spell,” The DMV wrote on its website. “A slippery road will not give your tires the grip they need.”
If your vehicle starts “riding on water” or hydroplaning, slow your car down gradually. Do not use the brakes.
Sacramento weather forecast
Showers and thunderstorms will continue to develop throughout the day Monday, the National Weather Service wrote on its Twitter page. In addition to slick roads, motorists should be vigilant of flooded roads and mudslides.
Showers will be “on and off” throughout Monday. Heavier rain will push into the Sacramento region Monday evening with a 70% chance of rain showers and possible thunderstorms, forecast to continue into Wednesday. By Thursday morning, the weather is predicted to bounce back to clear and sunny with warmer temperatures heading into the weekend.
Here’s a look at Sacramento’s forecast, as of Monday morning, according to the National Weather Service. For up-to-date forecasts, check back at weather.gov:
Monday | High near 73 degrees
A 80% chance of rain showers with possible thunderstorms after 11 a.m.
Monday night | Low 61 degrees
Mostly cloudy with a 70% chance of rain showers and possible thunderstorms.
Tuesday | High near 74 degrees
Mostly cloudy with a 50% chance of rain showers. Partly sunny, with a chance of rain showers.
Tuesday night | Low of 60 degrees
Partly cloudy, with a 40% chance of rain showers.
Wednesday |High near 75 degrees
Partly sunny with a 40% chance of rain showers.
Wednesday night | Low of 57 degrees
Mostly clear.
Thursday |High near 80 degrees
Sunny.
Thursday night |Low of 57 degrees
Clear.
Friday |High near 84 degrees
Sunny.
Friday night |Low of 58 degrees
Clear.
Saturday |High near 88 degrees
Sunny.
Saturday night |Low of 60 degrees
Clear.
Sunday |High near 89 degrees
Sunny.
This story was originally published September 19, 2022 at 11:21 AM with the headline "Why do roads get so slick in Sacramento rain? Here’s what to look out for and how to respond."