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Summer Heatwaves Pave Way for Pothole Peril
16 Sep
Summary
- Record heatwaves have aged road materials, making them brittle.
- Intense UV radiation from the sun contributes to road surface degradation.
- Drivers face potential increases in potholes due to summer's extreme heat.
Drivers should be prepared for a potential increase in road damage, including potholes, after a summer marked by extreme heat. The prolonged periods of intense sunshine and heatwaves have accelerated the aging process of road materials. Ultraviolet radiation, in particular, has been identified as a factor that makes road surfaces brittle and susceptible to cracking.
This combination of factors means that asphalt and other road construction materials may not withstand typical wear and tear as effectively. As a result, the RAC has cautioned that drivers may encounter a greater number of potholes on their journeys in the coming months. The current conditions present a significant challenge for road maintenance and public safety.
