So far, roads in South Savo and Central Finland have not suffered especially badly, but the situation could change as the spring progresses.

"Sunny days ease conditions significantly because moisture evaporates directly into the atmosphere and doesn't collect on road surfaces. But, if it rains, the impact on the roads is more damaging," says Maintenance Chief Pekka Rajala of the Uusimaa Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment.

Moisture is the biggest cause of potholes on unpaved roads and cracks from frost heaves in asphalt. The depth of the damage in some sections of roads is a reflection of the severely cold temperatures recorded this past winter.

"Paved roads will be showing considerably more cracks and edge depressions than before because the ground froze so deeply," notes Rajala.

Compensation for damage to cars

Cracks and potholes in the road can cause damage to the wheels of cars, and the road maintenance authority is liable to pay for the damage, if bad stretches are not clearly marked.

"Some claims are turned in by drivers because of bumpy roads and poor road maintenance, but surprisingly few. We've been able to keep the roads in fairly good shape, despite everything," says Rajala.

Spring is just arriving in southern parts of the country, and so the condition of roads nationwide is still difficult to evaluate.