Motorists Warned to Watch for Potholes as Warmer Weather Arrives

AAA says freeze-thaw cycles have damaged roads, leading to an early pothole season

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

With temperatures fluctuating between above and below freezing in New York, AAA is warning drivers to be on the lookout for potholes on the roads. The organization says the harsh winter and extended cold have taken a toll on roadways, leading to an earlier-than-usual pothole season. Hitting a pothole can cause significant damage to a vehicle, including tire, alignment, suspension, and shock issues.

Why it matters

Potholes pose a serious risk to drivers, with nearly 2 in 10 vehicles requiring repairs after hitting one, according to a 2023 AAA survey. The average repair bill for pothole damage was $406 in 2022, and costs are likely to be even higher due to rising parts and labor prices.

The details

Roadways that are cracked and crumbling are ideal conditions for potholes to form, as moisture seeps into the cracks and causes them to expand and contract with freeze-thaw cycles. This deterioration of the pavement, combined with the weight of passing vehicles, leads to the formation of potholes. AAA says this winter's harsh conditions in New York have set the stage for an early and severe pothole season.

  • Temperatures have been reaching the low to mid 40s during the day, but dropping below freezing overnight.

The players

AAA

A federation of motor clubs throughout North America that provides roadside assistance, insurance, travel planning, and other services to its members.

Jeremy Harrington

AAA Fleet Manager

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“While we've been inundated with requests to service dead batteries this year amid the cold spell, we expect to see more tire-related issues due to potholes now that temperatures are warming up.”

— Jeremy Harrington, AAA Fleet Manager (wxhc.com)

The takeaway

This early pothole season serves as a reminder for drivers to be vigilant when navigating roads, as hitting a pothole can lead to costly vehicle repairs. Motorists should slow down, avoid puddles that may be hiding potholes, and report any severe road damage to local authorities.