(pardon the interruption) the "bridge freezes before pavement" is purrfectly valid in that it's referring to the bridge deck and as such it is exposed to the cold air both above and below; so it naturally will result in icing up during a cold wet event before the terra based roadway surface.  Sorta like things hardening and becoming moisture laden more rapidly when exposed than when concealed under garments.  'nuff said.

OK, now back to discussions of HOT and WET....