Massachusetts Drivers Face Growing Pothole Predicament

Residents across Massachusetts may be loving the recent winter thaw, but the warmer temps and melting snow are causing a predicament for drivers.

Potholes are increasing on roadways due to repeated cycles of thawing and freezing. The rise in potholes is also leading to increased vehicle damage.

"I've lost a few tires," Revere resident Vincent Madden told NBC10 Boston.

Sullivan Tire in Newton reported to NBC10 Boston a surge in alignment appointments after pothole damage, averaging about 15 to 16 per day. Newton's deputy commissioner of public works notes that two pothole crews are actively addressing potholes, but the workload is heavy amid fluctuating warm and cold temperatures and precipitation.

City and town officials say patching potholes will continue as weather permits, adding that no municipality is immune to them. In the meantime, they advise drivers to slow down, stay alert, report potholes to city or town services, and take preventive steps to avoid vehicle damage, such as maintaining proper tire pressure and checking alignment after significant impacts with potholes.