Extreme Heat Causes Road Buckling in Cape Girardeau, Sends Car Airborne

Video Shows the moment the road buckled

Two roads in Cape Girardeau, Missouri buckled under intense heat over the weekend, with one dramatic collapse captured on video as a vehicle was sent airborne during the incident.

The extreme heatwave gripping the region caused significant structural damage to streets on Sunday, June 22. A video filmed by Albert Blackwell shows a section of Siemers Drive suddenly rising over 18 inches, cracking apart as a car traveled over it. The footage reveals the terrifying moment the roadway gave way, forcing the vehicle to jolt forward uncontrollably.

Video shows car go airborne after road buckles in extreme Missouri heat

Blackwell said he had initially started recording a noticeable bulge in the pavement, but when he shifted for a better view, the road “exploded.” According to Blackwell, “When I went back to get a front angle of cars going over the smaller buckle, the road exploded and rose over 18 inches, sending a car airborne.”

City officials confirmed that two roads, including Siemers Drive, experienced buckling due to the oppressive heat. The city has warned residents that more street buckling may occur as temperatures remain dangerously high throughout the week. Motorists were urged to exercise caution, wear seat belts, and report any unusual roadway conditions to authorities.

The Cape Girardeau Police Department confirmed no injuries were reported in connection with the incident. A spokesperson advised that extreme heat can cause unexpected changes to infrastructure, emphasizing safe driving and vigilance.

The road turned into a ramp as the car approached due to extreme heat

The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory for the area, which remains in effect through 7 p.m. Friday, June 27. Cape Girardeau, located approximately 115 miles south of St. Louis, is currently within the zone of an "extremely dangerous heat wave" stretching across the Northeast to the Plains. Tens of millions of Americans are under "extreme heat risk" as record-high temperatures and oppressive humidity continue into the week.

Health experts and meteorologists have warned that heat-related illnesses can increase significantly during such extreme weather. The National Weather Service recommends staying hydrated, wearing lightweight and loose-fitting clothing, and taking immediate action if signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke are observed.