Overview
- Road networks across Brandenburg suffered widespread heat-related damage over the weekend, with bulging, spalling and local 'blow-ups' reported on both autobahns and state roads.
- Major traffic impacts remain in place as of Monday June 29, with the A2 still closed between Theeßen and Brandenburg an der Havel, blow-ups on the A15 and the A115 reopened after temporary restrictions.
- All 33 state road depots were put on extended standby and about 240 staff carried out preventive and reactive work including pre-placing and reapplying grit (Splitt), cooling pavements with well water and setting temporary speed limits.
- Engineers say intense solar heating — not just air temperature — can push pavement surfaces above 60°C so that bitumen migrates to the surface and the layers lose grip, which leads to the observed bulging and surface break-ups.
- Officials warn the damage underlines a need for more staff and funding to build resilience, note many repairs are provisional for traffic safety, and say a permanent speed limit is not being considered.