Staffordshire’s gritters are being readied for the roads again this week, but not because of ice or snow.
With temperatures expected to reach around 30C, Staffordshire County Council says four gritters will be stationed around the county to spread granite dust on roads affected by the heat.
Although gritters are usually associated with winter weather, they are also used during very hot spells. When road surfaces become extremely warm, bitumen can soften and rise to the surface, a process 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 Staffordshire multiple times.
The county council said it will continue to monitor weather and road conditions closely, with crews ready to respond where needed.
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.”
