The Missouri department of transportation is turning their attention from plowing snow to filling potholes in mid-missouri. Melting snow, rain, and extreme cold temperatures have caused potholes to pop up earlier than expected. Moisture from winter rain and snow constantly seeps into the cracks and joints of the roadway. As cars and trucks drive over those cracks, the pressure causes chunks of pavement to pop out, and potholes are formed. Modot central district engineer David Silvester says drivers should be on watch for short-term lane closings and crews and equipment filling potholes over the next several days. Drivers are urged to report potholes on the state highway system by calling modot at 1-888-275-6636.