Gritters on standby as extreme heat threatens UK roads

Road maintenance teams across parts of the UK have placed gritters on standby as soaring temperatures raise concerns about damage to road surfaces during the current heatwave.

While gritters are most commonly associated with icy winter conditions, highway authorities are preparing to use them for a very different purpose. As temperatures climb towards record levels in some areas, road surface temperatures can exceed 50°C, causing bitumen within asphalt to soften and become sticky.

Several councils have confirmed that gritters could be deployed to spread fine stone dust or sand on vulnerable stretches of road. The material helps absorb excess bitumen, reducing the risk of surface deterioration and improving grip for motorists. Authorities say older road surfaces, rural routes and roads exposed to prolonged sunshine are among the areas most likely to require treatment.

The move comes as the UK experiences another period of extreme heat, with forecasters warning that temperatures could approach 40°C in some regions. Red heat alerts have been issued across large parts of England, highlighting the potential impact on transport networks and other critical infrastructure.

Highway engineers are closely monitoring road conditions and temperatures throughout the heatwave. In addition to the risk of melting surfaces, prolonged hot weather can lead to cracking, rutting and other forms of damage that may require repairs once temperatures fall.

Motorists are being advised to remain alert for changing road conditions and to report any signs of surface damage to their local authority. Drivers are also being encouraged to check tyre pressures regularly, as extreme heat can increase strain on tyres and vehicles.

Although the sight of gritters in the middle of summer may seem unusual, road maintenance experts say the vehicles play an important role in protecting highways from the effects of extreme weather, whether temperatures are below freezing or approaching record highs.

As climate patterns continue to bring more frequent periods of intense heat, councils are increasingly adapting their maintenance strategies to help keep roads safe and minimise disruption for road users.