ST. PAUL, Minn.—Extended periods of record-setting cold temperatures may result in a severe outbreak of potholes on the state’s highways, the Minnesota Department of Transportation advises.
Potholes usually form after water in highway pavement freezes. When the water freezes it expands, forming weakened pockets, or voids, in the pavement. The voids then collapse, creating the all too familiar pothole.
“Potholes are all but inevitable in this climate, but we are taking steps to minimize their number and severity,” said Steve Lund, Mn/DOT’s highway maintenance engineer.
Last winter, much of Minnesota experienced an early thaw. Rapidly rising temperatures resulted in heavy runoff from snow that that triggered the freeze/thaw cycle and quickly spread the yearly outbreak of potholes.
“This year, we have an extended period of deep cold which will allow water to stay frozen for a longer time,” Lund said. “The longer the water remains frozen, the more time it has to exert stress and cause damage to the surrounding pavement.”
Lund said this year’s spring thaw may come later than last year’s, but pavement damage and the cost and time needed to repair it might be greater.
“We’re attacking potholes on several fronts,” said Lund. “In the short-term, we’re using automated patching equipment to make repairs as quickly as possible. In the long-term, we are expanding our use of advanced pavement designs that we hope will greatly reduce the potential for damage such as potholes to develop,” he said.
For now, Lund said, the best advice for drivers is to remain patient as work crews plow snow and catch up with potholes and other pavement repairs.
Mn/DOT is also asking motorists to send an e-mail or call the agency if they notice potholes on a state or interstate highway.
To report potholes on state and interstate highways in Greater Minnesota, call the Mn/DOT Information Center at 651/296-3000.
Twin Cities metro area residents may call the pothole hotline at 651/234-7500. Reports about potholes may also be sent via e-mail to: info@dot.state.mn.us.
Motorists are also urged to use extra caution where maintenance crews are filling potholes or performing other tasks.
Visit www.dot.state.mn.us/information/potholes for more information on potholes, including photo and video files.
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