Expand / Collapse search
☰

Southeast Wisconsin extreme heat; 50+ pavement buckles reported

By
Published  June 23, 2025 1:36pm CDT
St. Francis
FOX6 News Milwaukee
article

Road buckles on Howard Avenue in St. Francis

The Brief

    • The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) reported more than 50 incidents of pavement buckling in the state due to the extreme heat on Monday, June 23.
    • Buckled pavement was reported in Milwaukee, St. Francis and Hartford among other locations.
    • WisDOT officials urge drivers to be aware of their surroundings – and monitor for any other buckling roadways.

ST. FRANCIS, Wis. - Extreme heat is causing issues for some drivers in southeast Wisconsin. State transportation officials report more than 50 incidents of buckling pavement. 

Road buckles in St. Francis

What we know:

The westbound lanes of E. Howard Avenue buckled in the extreme heat just east of S. Kinnickinnic Avenue in St. Francis on Monday, June 23. 

FREE DOWNLOAD: Get breaking news alerts in the FOX LOCAL Mobile app for iOS or Android

Road buckles on Howard Avenue in St. Francis

Police and public works crews blocked off the roadway and offered a detour for motorists. 

Elsewhere in SE Wisconsin

What we know:

Wisconsin Department of Transportation officials also noted on Monday afternoon that the two left lanes of northbound Wisconsin 175 were closed due to pavement damage. 

There was also buckled pavement on Highway 60 in Hartford. 

Buckled pavement on Highway 60 in Hartford

WisDOT warning

What we know:

As the extreme heat made its way into Wisconsin ahead of the weekend, state officials advised motorists to be alert and take extra caution as extreme heat can create conditions for pavement buckling.

When the weather quickly goes from cool to very hot, pavement can buckle. This causes slabs of pavement to expand and push against one another. 

SIGN UP TODAY: Get daily headlines, breaking news emails from FOX6 News

If the pressure becomes great enough, the pavement can buckle and create unexpected bumps or dips. 

What you can do:

Though the prediction of detecting when the buckling may occur can be difficult, WisDot has offered tips on how to stay safe.

  • Slow down, buckle up and focus your full attention on the roadway.
  • Watch for slowing traffic and be ready to move over for all roadside workers, including highway crews, as they repair damaged pavement.
  • Before your trip, check the 511 Travel Information system (511wi.gov) for the latest on any incidents or delays.
  • If necessary, report serious pavement issues by calling 911. Be ready to provide specific location information.

The Source: The information in this post was provided by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.

St. FrancisNews