Data from the past years indicate a significant evolution and change in temperature profiles, precipitation, and generally deviation from traditional seasonal cycles. For example snow events became more intense and sudden, and forecasts are getting more difficult. Based on Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) scenarios, analyses are made for some regions showing that some significant changes are to be expected, specifically for winter months.

Impacts of these changes on winter maintenance are analysed through some indicators such as de-icer consumption, manpower, and costs. Finally a section of the report deals with the impact on the road infrastructures, specifically that of frost/thaw cycles.