Not only can extreme heat waves take a toll on people, but they can also damage roadways.

Last week as Texas experienced triple-digit temperatures, a section of U.S. Route between Greenville and Celeste began to soften and break apart, according to WFAA.

Near County Road 1083 in the southbound lanes, drivers reported chunks of asphalt lifting from the roadway, sticking to their tires and striking fenders and undercarriages.

Videos shared by motorists last Thursday showed loose asphalt scattered across both the northbound and southbound lanes, while strips of pavement asphalt peeled from vehicle tires as they traveled through the area.

According to NBC DFW, the problem developed after traffic backed while crews cleared a crash involving a tractor-trailer.

Even the following day, WFAA reported that chunks of asphalt remained along the shoulder and were soft enough to bend by hand. Drivers were able to continue using the roadway but were urged to use caution because of the uneven surface.

Heat and traffic combined to damage pavement

During emergency repairs, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) determined the primary cause of the pavement failure was the extreme hear, according to WFAA.

While high temperature softened the asphalt, TxDOT said pavement temperatures climbed even higher as vehicles sat. in backed-up traffic during the crash response. Drivers making U-turns through the softened pavement also contributed to breaking apart the roadway, NBC DFW reported.

Officials said the oil-based binder that holds the aggregate together effectively “reactivated” in the extreme heat, causing the pavement surface to become sticky.

Repairs involve smoothing the damaged pavement and removing loose material from the travel lanes.

NBC DFW reported Monday that repair work was delayed by rain, with crews expected to continue repairs over the next two weeks.  

Warning signs have been installed near Celeste to alert motorists to the rough pavement conditions.  

Sources: WFAA, NBC DFW