WARNING: Rising Temps May Create Big Driving Hazard In Wisconsin

Everyone knows that winter driving in Wisconsin can be unpredictably dangerous with the threat of snow, ice, and even black ice.

You'd think that now that summer has arrived, motorists in the state don't have to worry about hazardous road conditions, other than the occasional pothole while driving through a neighborhood.

Unfortunately, that is not the case, as warm summer weather can create a different kind of hazard on the road, which can cause drivers to lose control, especially motorcyclists, or lead to vehicle damage.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) says that with the first heatwave of summer preparing to stifle Wisconsin this weekend, motorists need be prepared and drive with caution.

Wisconsin Department Of Transportation Warns Of Potential Driving Hazard

Hot and humid conditions are anticipated in Wisconsin from Saturday through Monday, with high temperatures expected to reach the low to mid-90s, and heat index values expected to climb to around 100 to 105 degrees.

WisDOT warns motorists that those conditions increase the risk of pavement buckling. Pavement can buckle when the weather quickly goes from cool to very hot. This causes slabs of pavement to expand and push against one another. If the pressure becomes great enough, the pavement can buckle and create unexpected bumps or dips, as the video below demonstrates.

Officials say that road buckling happens more frequently than in other Midwestern states or across the country. Wisconsin has experienced over 100 pavement buckling incidents each year since 2019, and the rate of buckling is generally increasing.

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It can be hazardous to motorists because buckles can suddenly disrupt the vehicle's trajectory, causing drivers to swerve or lose control, especially at higher speeds or on motorcycles.

The uneven surface can cause damage to tires, suspensions, and undercarriages, especially on vehicles with low ground clearance.

WisDOT says it's difficult to predict if or where buckling may occur, but they offer the following tips:

• Slow down, buckle up, and focus your full attention on the roadway.
• Watch for slowing traffic and be ready to move over for all roadside workers, including highway crews, as they repair damaged pavement.
• Before your trip, check the 511 Travel Information system (511wi.gov) for the latest on any incidents or delays.
• If necessary, report serious pavement issues by calling 911. Be ready to provide specific location information

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