As fatigue fractures develop they typically interlock in a pattern known as "alligator cracking".  The chunks of pavement between fatigue cracks are worked loose and may eventually be picked out of the surface by continued wheel loads, thus forming a pothole.

The formation of potholes is exacerbated by low temperatures, as water expands when it freezes to form ice, and puts greater stress on an already cracked pavement or road.  Once a pothole forms, it grows through continued removal of broken chunks of pavement.  If a pothole fills with water the growth may be accelerated, as the water "washes away" loose particles of road surface as vehicles pass.  In temperate climates, potholes tend to form most often during spring months when the sub-grade is weak due to high moisture content.  They are almost invisible to road users.

Potholes can grow to several feet in width, though they usually only become a few inches deep, at most. If they become large enough, damage to tires and vehicle suspensions occur.  Serious road accidents can occur as a direct result, especially on roadways where vehicle speeds are greater.

Another method for larger pot holes or damaged areas of asphalt is to saw cut the pot hole into a square or any shape, remove the damaged asphalt, lay and compact new hot asphalt.