New To Montana? Before You Drive, Get To Know These Two Terms

If you are visiting or just moving into this wonderful state, there are two weather-related terms you need to know. We have gone through lots of weather-related terms in the past to help all of the new people moving here, for their sake (and ours), but these two terms have not been on the list, until now.

So, on to round two of "how to help the transplants drive".

Term number one: Ice Fog

Ice fog, to be fair, is a term that is not used very often. But when used, it's extremely important to know what it is.

The Weather Guys easily define it for us:

Ice fog is a type of fog consisting of fine ice crystals suspended in the air. It occurs only in cold areas of the world, as water droplets suspended in the air can remain liquid down to minus 40 degrees -The Weather Guys

Term number two: Hydroplaning

What is hydroplaning? Hydroplaning is caused when heavy rain sits in the grooves on the roads. Here is advice given right from the DMV:

Slow down when there is a lot of water on the road. In a heavy rain at speeds of 50 mph or more, your tires can lose all contact with the road and then your vehicle will be riding on water or “hydroplaning.” A slight change of direction, applying the brakes, or a gust of wind could throw your vehicle into a skid.

If your vehicle starts to hydroplane, slow down gradually—do not apply the brakes -DMV Website

Both of these terms can not only save your life, but they will keep other drivers safe as well. Let's keep our roads smart AND safe here in Montana.

cc: The Weather Guys, DMV