How Melting Snow and Ice Impact Road Conditions in Spring
As spring arrives and temperatures rise across Atlantic Canada, melting snow and ice create
specific hazards that can significantly impact road conditions. This seasonal transition can lead to
unpredictable road surfaces, increasing risks for drivers.
Understanding how snowmelt affects the roads and adopting safe driving practices can help
reduce the likelihood of accidents during this time.
Increased Water Accumulation and Hydroplaning Risk
When temperatures warm up, accumulated snow and ice begin to melt, leading to an influx of
water on roadways. This water often collects in low-lying areas, especially around intersections or
poorly drained sections of roads. In some areas, drainage systems may be overwhelmed, creating
standing water.
This can lead to hydroplaning, where the vehicle’s tires lose contact with the road due to a layer of
water. According to a report from Transport Canada, hydroplaning is a frequent cause of loss of
control in vehicles during wet conditions.
Prevention Tips:
• Slow down in wet conditions and avoid sudden steering movements.
• Ensure that your tires are properly inflated and have sufficient tread to handle water on the
road.
Potholes and Road Damage
Melting snow and ice expose roads to temperature fluctuations, causing pavement to crack and
form potholes. The freeze-thaw cycle is especially damaging, as water seeps into cracks, freezes,
and expands, breaking up the road surface. In provinces like New Brunswick and Nova Scotia,
where heavy snow and ice accumulation is common during winter, spring can bring a surge in road
damage complaints.
A report from the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) found that Canadian drivers spend
about $1.4 billion annually on vehicle repairs due to potholes. In 2021, New Brunswick and Nova
Scotia faced an increase in claims for damages caused by road hazards, with pothole repairs alone
costing municipalities thousands of dollars.
Prevention Tips:
• Watch for road signs indicating upcoming road repairs or damage.
• Slow down when driving on uneven or visibly cracked surfaces.
• Report large potholes to local authorities to expedite repairs.
Reduced Road Traction Due to Slush
As snow and ice melt, slush can form, particularly in shaded areas where snow melts more slowly.
Slush can significantly reduce tire traction, leading to skidding or sliding, especially when driving at
high speeds. Slush is particularly dangerous on bridges and overpasses, which tend to freeze and
thaw more quickly than surrounding road surfaces.
A 2019 report from the Nova Scotia Road Safety Advisory Committee noted that road slush was a
contributing factor in several springtime accidents. The change in weather patterns often catches
drivers off guard, as they assume road conditions will be safer after the snow melts.
Prevention Tips:
• Reduce your speed and increase your following distance when driving in slushy conditions.
• Avoid abrupt braking and steering maneuvers on wet or slushy roads.
Frost Heaves and Uneven Surfaces
Frost heaves occur when moisture in the soil beneath the road freezes, causing the ground to
expand and push the pavement upwards. When the ground thaws in spring, the pavement sinks,
creating uneven surfaces and bumps.
Frost heaves are common in rural areas, particularly in the Maritime provinces, where roads are
more exposed to fluctuating temperatures and weather patterns.
Frost heaves can cause unexpected jolts, potentially leading to loss of control or damage to vehicle
suspensions. In Prince Edward Island, frost heaves have caused issues for rural roads, with many
drivers filing claims for vehicle damage.
Prevention Tips:
• Reduce your speed in areas known for frost heaves.
• Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel when driving over uneven surfaces.
Icy Mornings and Evenings
While daytime temperatures may rise, mornings and evenings in early spring can still bring freezing
conditions. Any melted snow from the day can refreeze overnight, creating icy patches on roads.
These “black ice” patches are nearly invisible and can be extremely hazardous, especially when
temperatures hover around the freezing mark.
The CBC reported several accidents in Halifax in early spring of 2022 caused by refreezing on major
roadways during early morning commutes. The unpredictability of road conditions at this time of
year makes defensive driving essential.
Prevention Tips:
• Monitor the weather forecast and be cautious during morning and evening commutes.
• Avoid sudden braking or accelerating when driving in potentially icy conditions
Flooded Roads
Melting snow combined with heavy spring rains can lead to localized flooding, especially in coastal
areas and river valleys. Flooded roads pose significant hazards, as water can obscure road
markings and signs or hide deep potholes
In New Brunswick, spring flooding along the Saint John River has caused road closures and detours
in recent years, particularly in areas like Fredericton and Moncton.
Prevention Tips:
• Never drive through flooded areas, as it’s difficult to gauge the depth of the water.
• Turn around if you encounter a flooded road and seek alternative routes.
Spring Snowstorms
Although spring marks the end of winter, snowstorms can still occur, especially in northern parts of
Atlantic Canada. These late-season storms can cause sudden and dangerous changes in road
conditions, such as reduced visibility, slippery roads, and increased traffic collisions.
For instance, in April 2019, a spring snowstorm in Cape Breton caused a series of crashes along
Highway 105, leaving several drivers stranded.
Prevention Tips:
• Keep your winter tires on until the risk of snowstorms has completely passed.
• Be prepared for sudden weather changes by carrying emergency supplies in your vehicle.
In conclusion, as winter transitions into spring, melting snow and ice introduce a unique set of road
hazards for drivers in Atlantic Canada. From hydroplaning risks and potholes to slushy surfaces
and frost heaves, the changing weather demands heightened awareness and caution. By adopting
safe driving habits, keeping your vehicle well-maintained, and staying informed about road
conditions, you can help prevent accidents and stay safe during this challenging time. Whether
you’re dealing with flooded roads or unexpected icy patches, preparation and attentiveness are key
to navigating the roads safely as the snow melts and spring begins.
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