North Texas Drivers Face Increased Pothole Risks Following Winter Storm
As the recent winter storm clears across North Texas, motorists are being urged to exercise caution regarding deteriorating road conditions. While the immediate dangers of ice and snow are subsiding, the fluctuating temperatures have created an ideal environment for the formation of new potholes.
The underlying cause of this roadway deterioration is the freeze-thaw cycle. When ice and snow melt during the day, water seeps into existing cracks and crevices in the pavement. As temperatures drop below freezing overnight, that trapped water expands, forcing the pavement apart and weakening the road’s sub-base. Once the ice creates a void beneath the surface, the weight of passing traffic causes the weakened asphalt to collapse, resulting in a pothole. This process is often more severe in regions like North Texas, where temperatures tend to oscillate rapidly between freezing and thawing, rather than staying consistently cold.
Despite the heightened risk, not all roadways will be equally affected. Newer infrastructure and highways constructed with reinforced concrete are generally more resistant to water intrusion compared to older asphalt streets. Furthermore, municipal crews are often deployed immediately following severe weather events to patch emerging hazards, which may limit the duration of rough driving conditions. Commuters are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any significant road damage to local transportation authorities to assist with rapid repair efforts.
