Pothole in an asphalt road with cracked edges

What Causes Potholes to Form in Roads?

What It Is

A pothole is a hole or depression that forms in a paved road surface.

How It Works

Roads are made of layered materials designed to support weight.

When those layers weaken, the surface can collapse.

Why It Happens

Water seeps into small cracks in the pavement.

Traffic pressure and temperature changes cause the damaged area to break apart.

Why Cold Weather Makes It Worse

Freezing and thawing expands and contracts trapped water.

This weakens the pavement faster.

Common Examples

  • Potholes after winter weather
  • Cracks turning into holes
  • Loose pavement around road damage

What to Know Next

Potholes grow larger if they are not repaired.

Closing Summary

Potholes form when water, traffic, and temperature changes weaken road surfaces until they break apart.

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