MADISON, WI (WSAU) — Extreme heat is expected to take over this weekend, increasing the risk of pavement buckles on Wisconsin highways and interstates. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is advising motorists to be alert and take extra caution.
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, which can be dangerous for drivers who hit them at highway speeds.
While it’s difficult to predict if or where buckling may occur, WisDOT offers these 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.
The National Weather Service has posted an extreme heat watch for much of Western Wisconsin, including Eau Claire, Rice Lake, Hayward, and Hudson. Forecasters are calling for temperatures in the 90s on Saturday and Sunday, with overnight lows in the low 70s.
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