The UK's ongoing heatwave is wreaking havoc on the nation's roads, with the AA sounding the alarm over a rapidly worsening pothole crisis. As temperatures soar, road surfaces are cracking under the strain, creating hazardous conditions for drivers.
Heatwave Accelerates Road Decay
Experts warn that the extreme weather is causing existing potholes to expand while creating new ones at an alarming rate. The AA reports a significant spike in callouts related to pothole damage, with thousands of motorists facing costly repairs.
Key Concerns:
- Rising temperatures soften road surfaces, making them more vulnerable to damage
- Increased traffic during summer holidays compounds the problem
- Local councils struggle to keep up with repairs amid budget constraints
Motorists Bear the Brunt
The AA urges drivers to remain vigilant, particularly on rural roads where potholes are often deeper and less visible. Common vehicle damages include:
- Punctured tyres
- Damaged suspension systems
- Misaligned wheels
- Cracked alloys
Emergency repairs are being carried out across the country, but experts warn this is merely a temporary solution to a growing infrastructure crisis.
Long-term Solutions Needed
Transport campaigners are calling for increased funding and better planning to future-proof UK roads against extreme weather events. With climate change likely to bring more frequent heatwaves, the pothole problem shows no signs of disappearing.
Motorists are advised to reduce speed when approaching suspected potholes and report dangerous road conditions to their local council immediately.
