Fluctuating temperatures and rain mean more potholes on the way

 

You probably don't have to drive very far before you encounter a pothole or two on Michiana roadways.

Potholes can be frustrating and a nightmare on your tires and car health in general. Unfortunately, our current weather pattern is perfect for more potholes to form and grow.

Potholes form when water flows through existing cracks in the road, and the water that collects underneath softens the base of the road. When temperatures fall below freezing, that water will freeze as well. That process causes the ice to expand and push the pavement upwards. The weaker pavement is further stressed by traffic moving on top of it.

Once the weather dries out and warms up, the result is a hole under the pavement. Passing cars and trucks caused the surface of the road to collapse into the hole, and presto! A pothole forms. It will continue to expand with time and with increased traffic going over it. 

Temperature swings combined with rain/snow are the ideal conditions for pothole formation. So, even if you just had your favorite pothole filled, don't be surprised if new ones appear over the coming days. 

Only 26 days left until spring!