Explainer: Hot summer days + rain = hydroplane; SUV spins off I-49 into trees

JASPER COUNTY, Mo. (KOAM) — About 9:50 a.m. Wednesday morning with periods of showers across the area reports of an SUV hydroplane off I-49 near Carthage alerted Jasper County E-911.

Carthage Fire, Mercy EMS, Jasper County Deputies responded near 48.6 mile marker I-49 NB. Missouri State Highway Patrol were notified.

We learn on scene the driver of the SUV was not speeding but with the rains, hydroplaned, spinning off to the right of the interstate into the trees, just north of Center Creek.

Driver was not injured. Those on scene were relieved the SUV didn’t overturn.

This is the exact same spot a tractor trailer hydroplaned into the median on May 24 . Luckily no one was injured that day either.

HOT SUMMER DAYS + RAIN = HYDROPLANE

As hot summer temperatures occur the oils and grease within the roadway are brought to the surface.

As summer rains come down and hit those oils it causes the roadway to be very slick and hydroplaning can occur easily.

With Independence Day gatherings don’t rush. Give yourself plenty of time for arrival and be weather aware.

Today is an Alert Day as thunderstorms could form later this afternoon. Watch for updates with Doug Heady and KOAM Skywatch Weather. We will simulcast our KOAM You Tube if you are not a subscriber, do so, and set LIVE ALERTS.