SHHH! Hear That? What IS That Humming on Michigan’s New Highways?

"What is that NOISE?" It sounds like an alien ship hovering over my car or a sick violinist hiding in my trunk. WHAT IS THAT HUM?

Related: Avoid 'Sliders': Lock 'Em Up When Getting Gas in Michigan

It comes and goes as you drive down some of Michigan's freshly laid roads (which are amazingly smooth). But what is that humming that is there sometimes and then...not? Am I going crazy?

Michigan's Beautifully Smooth, and Slightly Loud, Humming Roads

If you've heard it too, rest assured there is an explanation, and the sound won't last long. Aaron Jenkins, a Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) representative, spoke with WILX News 10 recently and was asked what the cause of this haunting, on-and-off-again drone.

Get our free mobile app

Referencing recent asphalt laid on I-496 in Lansing, Jenkins says the 'hum' is due to the new roads being laid in colder temperatures. You see, asphalt sets differently depending on how hot or chilly it is.

Why Michigan's 'Haunting Hum' Won't Last Long On Some New Roads

In the case of Michigan's newest roads that set during some colder nights, its texture has taken on a form that causes tires to 'hum'. Here's the kicker, the hum can vary from lane to lane (depending on the temperature it is set). Jenkin's went on to explain why our roads won't be 'humming' for long:

The sound will get quieter as more traffic moves over the surface. Overtime that will smooth out, but in these cold temps that texture really kind of solidifies and it really stands out and it makes this humming noise

Jenkins also explained that sound can vary depending on the size of your tires and your tread patterns. So, enjoy the free tunes while you can while enjoying fresh, smooth driving on Michigan's improved roads.