Staffordshire County Council’s highways teams are on standby as hot weather returns to the county over the next few days.
With temperatures due to hit 30C, four gritters will be stationed around Staffordshire, ready to spread granite dust on any roads affected by the heat.
While gritters are usually associated with winter weather, they also play an important role during very hot spells. When road surfaces become extremely warm, bitumen can soften and rise to the surface, known as ‘fatting up’.
Granite dust helps absorb the soft bitumen and stabilise the road surface.
During the last spell of hot weather in June, highways crews dusted around 30 roads across the county multiple times.
The county council will continue to monitor weather conditions and road conditions closely, with crews ready to respond where needed to help keep Staffordshire moving.
Drivers are also being advised to plan ahead, carry plenty of water, allow extra time for journeys and be prepared for hot conditions, particularly if travelling during the warmest part of the day.
Peter Mason, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Strategic Highways, said:
“Most people think of gritters as something we use in winter, but they are just as important when temperatures rise and road surfaces are put under pressure by the heat.
“Our highways teams will be keeping a close eye on conditions over the coming days, and we have four gritters ready across the county to spread granite dust wherever it is needed.
“We would also ask motorists to take sensible steps in the heat: plan journeys, carry water and allow extra time, especially if travelling during the hottest part of the day.”
