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(Image Credit: Cam Lee/northeastNOW)
More potholes emerging

Rainy weather has done no favours for Melfort’s roads

Jul 8, 2026 | 1:56 PM

The City of Melfort’s public works crew has been trying to get a handle on the massive number of potholes that have surfaced after a rainy June. 

Director of Public Works Kalyna Cipywnyk told northeastNOW that the recent weather conditions have been challenging. 

“Heavy rainstorms have a tendency to wash away the granular fill used as temporary pothole patches, and the rainwater will collect and sit in the exposed potholes, further eroding the roadway foundation,” Cipywnyk explained. 

While it’s impossible to say how many potholes have emerged from the rain, Cipywnyk said it’s easier to spot them when they’re filled with water.  

Potholes aren’t just a problem in one part of the city, either. Traffic, roadway material, and the age of the road all play factors in the formation of potholes, Cipywnyk explained. 

There will be some significant repairs taking place in the near future. 

“Our hot mix patching activities will begin in conjunction with the capital paving projects, scheduled to start the week of July 20,” said Cipywnyk. 

The typical asphalt patch usually lasts for up to three years, depending on the surrounding roadway conditions. Cipywnyk said a patch may last longer if it was installed in ideal conditions, but could prematurely fail due to increased traffic, adjacent road issues, or weather. Pothole patching is most effective when done in warm, dry weather with no standing water in the hole. 

Residents with pothole concerns can call City Hall at 306-752-5911 or by emailing city@melfort.ca. Cipywnyk said people reporting potholes should provide specific locations and descriptions, so crews know what to look for. 

“Sharing that there is a ‘large pothole at 110 Crawford Avenue West in the north parking lane’ is more helpful than saying ‘big hole by library,’ said Cipwynyk. 

She thanked all residents for their patience with road crews, and for respecting road work signage. The weather has hampered efforts to tackle the roadwork that needs to be done, and their understanding has been appreciated. 

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cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com