AMES, IOWA (AP) -- The rising temperatures in Iowa don't just mean hot weather. Iowa transportation officials are warning motorists that they may also force pavement to buckle and shatter.
The Iowa Department of Transportation says the summer heat can bring on thermal expansion, forcing pavement blowups. The department says its workers spend between 2,000 and 4,000 hours a year temporarily repairs the damage. The workers spend another 6,000 hours a year replacing the broken pavement. It costs about $400,000 annually.
Transportation officials say motorists should pay special attention to pavement surfaces, use caution and reduce speed. They say the blowups are likely after a wet period followed by a week of hot weather.
(Copyright ©2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forKTVO