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Pothole season draws nigh as temperatures surge

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WASHINGTON — As temperatures rise, so does the number of potholes. But there’s a little hope for drivers as this winter comes to a close.

Local transportation departments are keeping busy patching road damage. The Maryland Highway Administration said it has spent more than $800,000 on pothole eradication this season.

“We fill potholes based on customer input, as well as proactive patrols,” said spokesman Charlie Gischlar.

D.C. is about a month away from launching its Potholepalooza campaign. In the meantime, District drivers can report potholes by dialing 311.

Although temperature fluctuations have been extreme this winter, snowfall has been scarce.

“When our snow events are less severe, generally, fewer potholes form,” said Ellen Kamilakis, with the Virginia Department of Transportation.

“While we do have a specific snow budget, it’s part of a larger maintenance budget, so what we don’t spend on snow events can go toward things like potholes and drainage projects,” Kamilakis said.

Drivers in Virginia can report potholes by calling 1-800-FOR-ROAD.

Scattered showers and humid weather continues for the DC region on Sunday

While a flood watch for the region has been lifted on Saturday evening, humid temperatures and scattered showers will persist overnight and into Sunday. WTOP Meteorologist Mike Stinneford said that the potential for heavy showers will wind down overnight, but Sunday will remain unsettled, with scattered showers and thunderstorms. Highs will be in the 80s.
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