RAC warns summer heatwaves could worsen road surface problems

The RAC warns that summer heatwaves could worsen the UK’s pothole problem.

Intense UV radiation and heat oxidise the bitumen in asphalt, making it brittle and prone to cracking. Water penetration and traffic then turn these cracks into potholes.

According to the RAC Report on Motoring 2026, 51% of driver now cite poor road conditions as their top concern, with 66% noting local roads have deteriorated over the past year. Additionally, 34% of drivers reported vehicle damage from poor surfaces.

Simon Williams, RAC Head of Policy, said: “As UV and heat oxidise the bitumen binder in asphalt, it becomes harder and less flexible which leads to cracking.

“Then water penetrates cracks and as vehicles drive over them, the surface breaks and potholes start to appear. This is the last thing our already fragile roads needed.”

To prevent further damage, the RAC emphasises the need for preventative maintenance, such as surface dressing roads that are still in reasonable condition.

Mr Williams added: “Potholes are often associated with cold or wet winters, but prolonged periods of hot, sunny weather also takes its toll on the roads.

“Intense UV exposure and heat gradually oxidise the bitumen that binds asphalt together, making surfaces more brittle and prone to cracking. Once cracks develop, traffic and later rainfall can quickly turn them into serious defects.”

 “After the exceptional heat of this summer it’s even more important that we maintain our roads properly.

“We need to be surface dressing roads still in reasonable condition to keep them that way. This involves spreading chippings on to fresh bitumen binder and sealing them against the ingress of water, which is the enemy as it leads to cracking and potholes.”