Road gritters are being readied in some counties to stop roads melting

The sand acts like a sponge to soak up excess bitumen, apparently... 

Road gritters are on standby in some counties in the event that roads melt in the extreme heat. The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning across England and Wales as temperatures rise this week. The hottest conditions will be felt in the south and Midlands, with London currently predicted to experience temperatures in the region of 34C. Hampshire County Council is preparing to deploy gritters to spread light dustings of sand that will "act like a sponge to soak up excess bitumen”, according to the authority. Gritters are normally used to distribute salt during the winter to stop ice forming on roads. https://twitter.com/hantsconnect/status/1546449593243664386?s=20&t=bBtt7609hm8f4wIZA0I9AQ The areas most likely to be targeted by the vehicles this week are those with older road surfaces, in rural locations and south facing. Residents are being urged to report any road problems on the council’s website. Motorists who find tar stuck to their tyres are advised to wash it off with warm soapy water. Related links:

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