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This winter season has seen drastic changes in temperature, with conditions moving from snow and ice to rain and overnight refreezes. These conditions lead to potholes on the road.
Potholes form when temperatures warm up during the day but continue to be cold at night. The rain and snow from winter leave moisture that seeps into cracks and joints in the pavement. When temperatures drop, the water freezes and expands the pavement. This expansion causes the pavement to bulge and crack. When cars drive over the bulging pavement, it eventually causes chunks of pavement to pop out.
MoDOT maintenance crews will be out repairing potholes on state roads. Be aware of crews on the roadway and give them room to work. Drivers should be on the watch for short-term lane closures, crews and equipment on the roadway.
In 2024, MoDOT protective vehicles, including those with truck/trailer-mounted attenuators (TMA), were struck 35 times. There were 58 TMAs struck in 2023.
Most of the TMAs struck while protecting pothole patching crews are struck in the winter months.
On any given day, as many as 150 pothole patching crews may be working to make state roadways safer.
Customers can report potholes through MoDOT’s customer service line at 888-ASK-MODOT (888-275-6636), or by using the Report a Road Concern webform on MoDOT’s website, so MoDOT maintenance crews can assess the damage and complete the needed repairs. Potholes on city streets or subdivisions should be directed to local cities or townships.
