Warning! The Dangers of Extreme Weather for Roads and Tire Performance

JAKARTA – Weather conditions greatly affect road surfaces and tire performance through temperature changes and rainfall, which can damage road infrastructure and reduce tire traction. Hot weather softens asphalt and can cause excessive tire pressure, while rain and flooding make roads slippery, erode surfaces, and damage drainage systems. Both conditions are hazardous for tires — heat can lead to overinflation and uneven wear, while moisture and standing water worsen the grip of already worn tires.

Impact on Road Conditions

Hot weather: Can soften asphalt, especially in high-traffic areas, making roads stickier and more prone to damage.
Heavy rain and flooding: Make road surfaces slippery, damage drainage systems, and accelerate road deterioration.
Strong winds: Can disrupt vehicle stability, especially for trucks, and cause damage to infrastructure.

Impact on Tires

Hot temperatures:

• Overpressure: The air inside tires expands, increasing pressure. Excessive pressure can cause uneven wear and reduce traction.

• Blowout risk: Extreme overpressure increases the risk of tire blowouts.

• Overheating: Excessive road heat can cause tires to overheat and degrade faster.

Cold temperatures:

• Reduced pressure: The air inside tires contracts, lowering tire pressure. Underinflated tires reduce traction, increase fuel consumption, and accelerate wear.

• Stiff compounds: Cold temperatures make rubber compounds stiffer, decreasing grip.

Rain:

• Reduced traction: Wet and slippery roads drastically decrease a tire’s grip.

• Slip risk: Especially when tires are worn, puddles can increase the risk of slipping or aquaplaning.

Tips to Maintain Tire Performance

• Regularly check and adjust tire pressure, especially during significant temperature changes. Make sure the pressure matches the manufacturer’s recommendations.

• Check tire tread depth. Worn tires are very dangerous in bad weather, especially during rain.

• Use seasonal tires when possible — for example, winter tires in cold climates.

• Reduce speed and increase following distance, especially on wet or windy roads.

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