North Dakota – The North Dakota Highway Patrol is reminding motorists to stay alert during extreme heat after a roadway buckle caused a major traffic backup on Interstate 29 southbound in Fargo.
According to the Highway Patrol, the congestion was caused by a pavement heave, which can occur when prolonged high temperatures cause road surfaces to expand and buckle with little warning.
Officials urged drivers to be prepared for traffic to slow or stop unexpectedly as hot weather continues across the state.
Motorists are encouraged to increase their following distance, remain alert behind the wheel and be ready for sudden changes in traffic conditions near areas affected by extreme heat.
The Highway Patrol also thanked the North Dakota Department of Transportation for its quick response to the incident, noting that crews promptly repaired the damaged roadway and helped restore safe traffic flow.
Officials said the incident serves as a reminder that high temperatures can create hazardous driving conditions even in the absence of crashes or construction zones.
