Dunlop Sounds Warning on Summer Tyre Risks Amid UK Heatwave
Dunlop Tyre Europe has issued a warning to fleet and retail sectors regarding summer tyre safety, citing the risk of thermal failure due to extreme temperatures. The manufacturer notes that successive UK heatwaves have caused road surface temperatures to exceed 50°C, leading to accelerated tread wear and compound strain.
The company highlights major trunk routes severely impacted by surface bitumen melting, including sections of the A12, A143, A30, A3, and B6362. Softened asphalt and extreme heat build-up place exceptional stress on tyre casings, making pre-journey maintenance essential for fleet efficiency and road safety.
Dunlop recommends that drivers ensure cold inflation pressures match manufacturer specifications, accounting for maximum vehicle load capacities. They also advise checking sidewalls for bulges, cracks, or cuts caused by heat-stressed road debris, as well as monitoring for slow punctures.