High Temps Create Unexpected Speed Bump in West Des Moines Neighborhood

Whether they wanted it or not, residents of one West Des Moines neighborhood got a new speed bump Friday afternoon.

Well, not a speed bump, exactly, but it's certainly slowing traffic on Century Drive in West Des Moines.

Neighbors say it was just another scorching summer day when something suddenly diverted traffic at 84th Street and Century Drive. The concrete had buckled creating a ramp-like effect in the road.

Crews were quick to barricade the problem area. No word on when residents there can expect a fix.

According to a story on WHO-TV.com, extreme temperatures like those we've experienced in the last week, can cause problems with underground infrastructure.

“The street itself is really a cap,” said Bill Stowe, Des Moines Public Works director. ”We drive on it, but underneath that cap are a lot of utilities: telecommunications, natural gas, water, electrical cables, etc.”

Stowe said heat causes the water vapor around underground pipes and cables to expand, making the concrete buckle.

Friday's high temperature was 102 degrees with a heat index as high as 105 degrees.