Pothole season is out to get us, Des Moines

Can you feel it? It's pothole season in Des Moines.

State of play: Our pothole situation is actually better than it's been in the past, said Jonathan Gano, Des Moines public works director.

• Only 2,000 reports of potholes have been filed since January, compared to the typical 5,000-7,000 reports filed in that time period, Gano said.
• We have a short cold freeze to thank for that, which made the concrete conditions better than normal.

Here are some of the toughest enemies our cars (and wallets) face.

Keo Way

Difficulty: Level 7

When you get off the interstate heading downtown, this sucker hides along the curve on Keosaqua Way.

Its special attack: The one-two punch. You think you've swerved to avoid one of the holes and BAM — the other one sneak attacks. Low blow, man.

2nd Avenue

Difficulty: Level 5

This buddy likes to hang outside Double Dragon off 2nd Avenue, just waiting for you to pass by.

The best combo: Dodge left when traveling north on this street. The potholes are the worst in the right lane.

Grand Avenue

Difficulty: Level 8

You're hanging out downtown (maybe scooping the loop) when this tough guy outside of Meredith suddenly appears.

It's super effective ... against bicycles, motorcycles and any other unsuspecting two-wheeled mobile that's rolling around downtown.

Konami code: If you see one of these bad boys, punch in 515-283-4950 to make a report or use the DSM My Mobile app.