Pavement failure possible in summer heat

The Illinois Department of Transportation, IDOT, last week was urging motorists to be on the alert for the possibility of pavement buckling on roads throughout the state as the result of recent rainfall and extreme heat.

The combination of very high temperatures and precipitation can lead to pavement expanding and ultimately buckling or blowing out, causing uneven driving surfaces in some areas.

As long as the heat and humidity persists, IDOT officials said they would be monitoring the situation, with crews available to make repairs as quickly as possible if they are needed.

Motorists were advised to be aware of slowing traffic and be prepared to move over for maintenance workers and other emergency personnel.

In addition, during times of extreme heat, motorists were being encouraged to carry drinking water with them when they travel.

Getting stranded could be dangerous and dehydration can happen quickly in such conditions without proper hydration.