While Michiganders love to travel around our beautiful state, there's one thing that's hard to deny: we have a few pot holes you'll spot along the way.

Canva
Canva
loading...

And yes, of course, we appreciate the hard work that Governor Gretchen Whitmer has already put in to "fix the damn roads". It's just inevitable with Michigan's harsh weather that we're going to have pot holes every season, no matter what.

What causes potholes?

Potholes are the symptom of roads breaking down due to changing weather.

Potholes form when water seeps into our roadways naturally, then freezes. The frozen water cause the road to expand, then eventually shrink.

177587539
Maudib, Thinkstock
loading...

Enough of this over time causes the road to buckle and decay, thus the birth of a pothole.

Why are we seeing less of them this year even though we've seen early record snowfalls?

While West Michigan has seen a lot of snow already in the 2022-2023 winter season, it's only been in bursts. Overall, our winter has stayed over freezing more so than normal, so on the days we aren't getting dumped with 10+ inches of snow, the roads are able to breathe more normally.

Pothole
AHMED MOBARKI, ThinkStock
loading...

Now, that's not to say it isn't possible that we could see more regular snow in the upcoming months as we head further into the winter season, but for now it's seeming mild and easy.

What can I do if I spot a pothole?

First of all, don't hit it. You don't need an extra car bill.

Potholes In The Roads Surrounding Glasgow
Getty Images
loading...

Secondly, report it! Each city website generally has a easy to fill out form online, so you don't have to take much time out of your day. If you live in Grand Rapids like me, our portal is exceptionally helpful.

What Did Michigan’s License Plates Look Like The Year You Were Born?

Michigan is home to so much motor vehicle history. Let's take a look back in time to see some of the cool and interesting Michigan license plates of the past.

More From Mix 95.7