Tim Ryan, tryan@shawanoleader.com
Warmer weather predicted heading into next week may be a welcome change from the icy grip of this winter’s lingering polar vortex, but the sudden temperature climb could bring a few new problems with it.
City crews Friday began clearing away some of the huge snow piles that have accumulated in city parking lots to stave off the threat of flooding as the snow starts to melt.
On Monday, when temperatures are forecast to reach 47 degrees, crews will also be working to clear out catch basins to keep water runoff from ponding up in the streets.
Public Works Coordinator Eddie Sheppard said crews are also already having to contend with potholes that start showing up annually with the warmer weather.
Some potholes began opening up after a brief run of temperatures above freezing last month.
“It’s like that every spring, but this year could be worse,” Sheppard said.
Public works crews have been doing temporary patch jobs on the potholes until they can be repaired when spring arrives.
Sheppard said that after several months of problems created by chronic subzero temperatures, he isn’t bothered by the problems warmer weather will bring.
“We’re ready for some new problems,” he said.
The warm-up also poses potential hazards for motorists, as temperatures will continue to drop below freezing overnight.
“Motorists need to be prepared for changing road conditions,” said Capt. Tom Tuma of the Shawano County Sheriff’s Department.
The Sheriff’s Department logged dozens of accidents in the days that followed last month’s warm spell, with drivers suddenly encountering patches of glare ice.