UK roads face worsening pothole conditions following record summer heatwave

The short version

• The RAC warns that summer heatwaves and intense UV rays oxidise bitumen, causing UK asphalt to become brittle and crack.[The Guardian]
• Road degradation compounds existing damage from heavy winter rain, which had already left only half of the network in England and Wales in good condition.[The Guardian]
• Engineers and motoring groups warn that cracks created by summer heat will rapidly turn into severe potholes once winter rain and heavy traffic hit.[The Guardian]

Key facts

• The RAC warned motorists that UK roads are expected to experience a surge in potholes following the country's hottest summer on record.[The Guardian]
• Intense UV rays and high temperatures oxidise the bitumen binding asphalt, making road surfaces brittle and susceptible to cracking.[The Guardian]
• The Asphalt Industry Alliance reported earlier in the year that only 50% of the road network in England and Wales was in good condition after prolonged rainfall.[The Guardian]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

• Expect even more potholes on UK roads after summer heatwaves, says RACThe Guardian - World