San Francisco Hit by Mystery ‘Pothole Pandemic’San Francisco Hit by Mystery ‘Pothole Pandemic’ San Francisco has been experiencing a sudden and severe surge in potholes, leaving drivers and residents alike bewildered and frustrated. City officials have dubbed it a “pothole pandemic,” scrambling to address the unprecedented situation. Reports of potholes have skyrocketed across the city, with multiple popping up on major thoroughfares, residential streets, and even sidewalks. Vehicles have suffered blown tires, damaged suspensions, and other costly repairs. Pedestrians have stumbled and fallen, sustaining injuries. The cause of the pothole pandemic remains a mystery. While rainfall and road wear are common culprits, the current surge has been extreme and inexplicable. Some experts suggest that recent seismic activity may have weakened the asphalt, while others speculate about faulty road construction or inadequate maintenance. City crews have been working tirelessly to fill the potholes, but the sheer volume has overwhelmed them. Temporary repairs have proved ineffective, with many potholes reappearing within days. Mayor London Breed has declared a state of emergency and pledged to allocate additional resources to address the crisis. The city is exploring new technologies, such as infrared scanners, to detect and repair potholes more efficiently. Residents have expressed anger and frustration over the situation. “I’ve never seen anything like it,” said one resident. “It’s like driving through a minefield.” The pothole pandemic has also had a significant impact on businesses. Drivers are avoiding streets with known potholes, leading to decreased foot traffic and lost revenue. Delivery services have been disrupted, and emergency vehicles have encountered delays. San Francisco is not alone in its pothole woes. Other cities across the United States have reported similar surges in recent years. However, the magnitude of the problem in San Francisco has raised concerns about the safety of its roads and infrastructure. As the city continues to grapple with the pothole pandemic, officials and residents alike hope that the cause can be identified and addressed to prevent a recurrence of this unprecedented crisis.