Dangerous road deformations: Heat wave causes highways to explode!

Dangerous road deformations: Heat wave causes highways to explode!

High temperatures not only make life difficult, they also pose a real danger to our highways. In Hesse, there were two dangerous “blow-ups” on the A5 in the last few hot days - between Fernwald and the Gambacher Kreuz and between Zwingenberg and Bensheim. During these incidents, the road bulged upward at the joints and caused massive traffic disruptions. The “blow-up” near Bensheim was particularly dramatic as it resulted in the closure of an entire section of road in order to avert the danger and carry out repairs. The concrete slabs, which are processed at the joints every five meters, were particularly affected. These are replaced with asphalt during repairs, which reduces the tension and significantly reduces the risk of further “blow-ups”, as stern.de reports.

But what exactly leads to these dangerous deformations? The explanation lies in the persistent summer heat. If the thermometer rises above 60 degrees, cracks and obvious damage can appear on the road surfaces. Regardless of whether it is a motorway or a country road, the road infrastructure is no longer able to keep the heat under control. Markus Oeser, President of the Federal Highway Research Institute, emphasizes the urgency of keeping an eye on older concrete roadways, as they are particularly susceptible to such damage. These sections are now monitored with sensors and measuring vehicles. The heat also poses a challenge for asphalt roads, as they tend to form ruts in extreme temperatures, which makes them even more dangerous during heavy rains, as fr.de explains.

Climate change as a challenge for infrastructure

The challenges posed by climate change should not be underestimated. The need to adapt to rising temperatures poses immense challenges for the infrastructure. Researchers are already working on projects such as AdSVIS, which detects and analyzes climate change-related risks to road transport infrastructure. The development and implementation of adaptation measures are essential to minimize future hazards such as “blow-ups”. A central project is the risk analysis of the traffic axes in the federal highway network, which is intended to fundamentally examine the effects of climate change on our roads. In addition to road surfaces, aspects such as drainage are also taken into account in order to be able to better manage flash floods, as can be found on the website of the Federal Environment Agency.

One of the innovative products that contributes to improving road infrastructure is “KlimaPhalt”. This special surface can absorb up to 100 liters of rainwater per square meter and is a big step towards a more heat-resistant and rainproof road surface. According to Lutz Weiler, managing director of Offenbacher Asphaltbau und Mischwerke, this technology could not only reduce road pollution, but also significantly relieve pressure on the sewer system.

Be careful on the roads!Pedestrians and drivers now have to be even more careful on the roads. The dangers highlighted, such as “blow-ups” and the formation of ruts, make it clear that drivers are also required to drive defensively and keep a greater distance from other vehicles, for example. So the motto of the hour is: Open your eyes and drive safely!