Pothole Reports Jump During First Week of January

Cold weather, snow and jarring temperature fluctuations seem to have opened up several potholes in Somerville.

According to records from Somerville's constituent services 311 system, the Department of Public Works filled 82 potholes between Jan. 3 and Jan 9—a one week period.

In comparison, the DPW filled 121 potholes between Nov. 4, 2013 and Dec. 31, 2013—a two month period.

Most of the potholes filled—150 of them—were discovered and reported by DPW work crews, but the beginning January also saw a spike in 311 calls from residents reporting potholes.

The problem isn't Somerville's alone. NECN reported the recent deep freeze has created pothole problems throughout New England, saying the Massachusetts Department of Transportation wants people to report potholes by calling (857) 368-4636.

Of course, here in Somerville you'll probably want to call 311, or (617) 666-3311 if you'e calling from a cell phone.

Jaclyn Rossetti, a spokesperson for the city, said the Department of Public Works will fill potholes with a "cold patch" for the winter, and when the seasons change the DPW will refill potholes with a more permanent patch.

Have you encountered pothole problems recently? Has your car been swallowed by the gaping maw of the street and plunged evermore into the depths of cold eternity, or perhaps lost a hubcap? Let us know.