SloveniaThe article discusses an unusual method used by Dutch municipalities during extreme heatwaves to prevent damage to newly laid asphalt roads. Instead of traditional salt spreading, which is typically associated with winter road maintenance, some areas like Maastricht applied salt during summer to cool the asphalt surface and prevent deformation caused by high temperatures. The practice helps reduce the stickiness of bitumen and prevents tire damage on vulnerable sections of roads where vehicles brake, accelerate, or turn. This approach has been used before during previous heatwaves, with temperatures exceeding 50°C in some cases. In addition to salt, some areas use fine sand to absorb excess moisture and prevent vehicle adhesion.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual explanation of a technical solution used by local governments in the Netherlands to address infrastructure challenges during extreme heat. It does not take a partisan stance, nor does it emphasize any particular political ideology. The focus is on practical engineering
