GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. — Extremely hot temperatures have an impact on just about everything – people, pets, plants, even roads.
During a bout of excessive heat, roads can buckle and crack, creating dangerous hazards for drivers.
When roads are constructed, the material is cut into segments to create space for expansion and contraction, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation. When it gets too hot, sometimes that space isn't enough and the pavement buckles or pushes up. Road buckling is more common on older concrete pavements.
If you notice a road buckle while driving, MnDOT says to try and avoid driving over it. Slow down, move to another lane and when safe, call 911.
"We do consider that a traffic emergency," said Anne Meyer with MnDOT. "We want drivers to call 911 if they see this happening."
Over the weekend, Highway 100 in Golden Valley started buckling near the Duluth Street Exit.
And in Chisago County, a major road buckle along I-35E north of Rush City prompted the sheriff's office to warn motorists of major traffic delays.
During an extreme heat event, it's extremely important to keep yourself cool. If you or someone you know doesn't have access to a cool, air-conditioned location, here's where you can find cooling centers across Hennepin, Ramsey and Dakota counties.
Heat-related illnesses, like heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke are all possible when temperatures spike. Click here for more information on the signs, symptoms and treatment of heat illness.
And if you're looking for a fun way to cool down indoors or outdoors, check out our list of 11 ways to beat the heat.
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