REGINA, Sask. — Spring floods are causing major damage to Saskatchewan’s roads, the province’s Minster of Highways and Infrastructure, Jim Reiter has warned.

The province is increasing maintenance efforts as saturated roadbeds begin to thaw and pavement surfaces reveal damage in the form of surface breaks, cracks and potholes.

“Roadbeds are saturated with moisture because of the excessive rainfall Saskatchewan experienced last year and the large spring runoff this year,” Reiter said. “Now, as the sub-surface of the roads have begun to thaw we’re seeing some severe impacts. This year’s flooding makes the problem even worse.”

As the floodwaters recede, Reiter said the full impact to side slopes, roadbeds and surfaces will be revealed. He’s warning drivers to be prepared for delays as the province prepares to rehabilitate its roadways.

“The province will be making repairs to the highway network, and we have crews, contractors, materials and equipment at the ready,” Reiter said. “But it will also take time – time for the roadbeds to dry out, and time for our maintenance crews and contractors to get to all areas of the province in order to make long-term repairs.”

The province plans to tackle the most heavily travelled roadways first when making repairs. The province has a Highway Hotline available at 888-335-7623, which provides updates on construction activity and highway conditions.