Drivers are warned that high temperatures could cause more road buckling in the Peoria area.
Sie Maroon, superintendent of operations at Peoria's public works department, said swelling near the joints of concrete or asphalt can cause roads to split— and there's very little warning.
"Sometimes when they go, they just go, and they go in a massive amount or size," Maroon said. "That's when you find out about it. You're reacting instead of responding."
Maroon said it's normal for pavement to continually expand and contract, but extreme temperatures in the summer and winter make it more likely for the road to crack. He said more buckling could be coming, as mid-90 degree temperatures continue for the next week or so.
"Our roads aren't in the greatest condition to begin with," he said. "With those weaknesses that are in the roads right now, (drivers) can certainly expect to see some things happening. That's not to put fear in anybody. That's just to say keep your eyes open. If you see something, let us know."
Traffic was redirected from parts of War Memorial Drive and Route 6 Tuesday night after the roadways split.
Maroon said the Illinois Department of Transportation is responsible for those repairs. Meanwhile, Peoria Public Works is currently repairing two blow-ups on North Hale Avenue near Route 40 and Southwest Adams near Western.
Maroon said another project on Sheridan and Lake is planned for next week.
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