New Jersey is preparing for a difficult pothole season, as the N.J. DOT anticipates increased road damage from the region's freeze-thaw cycles. While road crews continuously fill potholes, major repairs are planned for spring, a season that typically exacerbates road conditions. The freeze-thaw cycle is a key factor in pothole formation. Water enters pavement cracks, expands when frozen, and leaves gaps upon thawing. Repeated cycles weaken the pavement, leading to potholes under traffic pressure.