Staffordshire County Council's highways teams are on standby as hot weather returns to the county over the next few days, with temperatures expected to reach 30C.
Four gritters will be stationed around Staffordshire to spread granite dust on any roads affected by the heat. The measure is a standard response to extreme temperatures, when road surfaces come under pressure from the sun.
How gritters help in hot weather
While gritters are commonly associated with winter weather, they serve an important purpose during hot spells. When road surfaces become extremely warm, bitumen can soften and rise to the surface — a process known as 'fatting up'. Granite dust absorbs the soft bitumen and stabilises the road surface.
During the last hot spell in June, highways crews dusted around 30 roads across the county multiple times.
Advice for drivers
Drivers are 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."
The county council will continue to monitor weather conditions and road conditions closely, with crews ready to respond where needed.