Area temperatures have been fluctuating above and below freezing during the past few weeks, and this has created prime conditions for potholes forming on Indiana roadways.

To deal with the situation, the Indiana Department of Transportation will allow crews throughout the state to close travel lanes when and where necessary during daytime hours, including during peak travel times for priority repairs, according to an INDOT news release.

Where possible, crews will limit their daytime work hours and try to avoid working in travel lanes carrying traffic in the peak direction during peak times. However, motorists may encounter maintenance crews making priority repairs any time of the day or night, the news release stated.

INDOT is asking that all drivers be alert while behind the wheel, slow down, and give highway workers safe space to do their jobs. They advise to allow extra following distance for more time to stop or slow down in a pothole repair zone.

To report a pothole on a numbered state route, interstate or U.S. highway, contact your regional INDOT district or follow the “Report a Concern” link. For potholes on city streets or county roads, please contact the proper city or county maintenance department.