(File photo/northeastNOW)

By Cam Lee

Pothole season

Pothole season has emerged after the snow melt

Apr 15, 2025 | 1:00 PM

The unwelcome side of spring has reared its ugly head.

Potholes on streets across Saskatchewan have been revealed thanks to the spring melt.

Melfort’s Director of Public Works Kalyna Cipywnyk told northeastNOW the melt has revealed the potholes hidden underneath the snow, and the new potholes that have developed over the winter due to frost heaves.

The temporary fix for spring potholes is dependent on the size and location of said hole.

“If it is a deeper pothole, the crews may choose to fill the hole with base gravel and level it with the surrounding asphalt,” explained Cipywnyk. “If the pothole is shallower and the weather is warmer, cold-mix asphalt can be applied.”

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Hot-mix asphalt will be applied if necessary once the weather warms up.

Crews may have to mark the area with signage warning drivers of the holes should the weather not cooperate with pothole patching. Cipwynyk said the high-traffic areas are more susceptible to the development of potholes than other parts of the city, but no street is immune from the vehicle-rattling holes.

It’s also essential to do spring work on unpaved roads.

“Our approach to our gravel road network during this season is to first ensure that the water is draining and not sitting in the road before sending the grader down the street,” said Cipywnyk. “Once these roads are dry, the grader is more effective, and we can also begin topping up the gravel that may have disappeared over the winter.”

Motorists in Melfort that notice a pothole can either phone city hall or email city@melfort.ca. Cipywnyk said it’s important to be as specific as possible when reporting the pothole location, including an address to give crews a chance to inspect the correct areas.

Cipywnyk said residents should be navigating streets with due care and attention, as potholes can quickly develop. She added it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings while driving to help prevent damage to your vehicle.

“I would like to mention that we appreciate everyone’s patience during this time of year while crews are juggling both ongoing water issues and road issues.”

She asked everyone to take care while driving in the city, and to respect all signage.

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Cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com