Heatwaves are ruining British roads, claims the Telegraph. But winter is pothole season, say experts

Credit: BBC

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Changing weather patterns are exposing the fragility of UK transport networks, says the report. What patterns? Some think it’s just poor maintenance, or lack of it, that’s the main issue. A 2024 article by civil engineers is headed: Why Do UK Roads Get Hit with Potholes in Winter? It says: ‘Every winter, roads across the United Kingdom face a seasonal menace: potholes. While potholes can appear year-round, their numbers and severity spike as temperatures drop, particularly in high-traffic areas. But what exactly causes this? and why are UK roads so vulnerable during winter?’ — One of the four main reasons listed is road salt, used to make icy surfaces less hazardous for drivers. Another article says bluntly: ‘Freezing temperatures and heavy vehicles are a catalyst for potholes’. Definitely not a heatwave issue there, but people explore the countryside more in summer, so that’s one reason unexpected potholes are encountered then. The Telegraph and also the AA motoring organisation seem intent on blaming heatwaves, and by extension the hoary old chestnut of ‘climate change’ for the state of the roads.
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Heatwaves have ruined British roads and driven a rise in pothole-related breakdowns, says The Telegraph.

The AA said it received more than 50,000 call-outs in July caused by poor road surfaces, up by 2.1 per cent compared with the same month last year.

It reverses a trend of declining pothole-related breakdowns earlier in 2025.

High temperatures this summer are partly to blame for the increase, according to the motoring organisation.

AA president Edmund King said: “This summer’s heatwave has starkly exposed the fragility of Britain’s roads.

“While investment and repair campaigns have made a difference, the recent setback illustrates that much more must be done to create a safe and reliable road network for everyone.

“We urge the Government and local authorities to redouble their efforts in tackling the pothole crisis, prioritising rural routes and frequently-used cycling and motorcycling corridors.”

It comes after the Government pledged £1.6 billion to local councils for pothole repairs this year.
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Heat has worsened the conditions of already weak road surfaces, the AA said, with worn or damaged tyres more susceptible to failure. [Talkshop comment: it’s not the heat itself – see next sentence].

It also blamed damage on an increase in tourists using rural roads, which often receive a low priority for maintenance.

Full article here.
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Image credit: BBC