Traffic in Spain set to surge over May bank holiday
More than 7.5 million journeys expected as drivers head off for long weekend
Spain’s roads are set for a busy few days, with the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) predicting over 7.5 million journeys during the upcoming May bank holiday. The busiest period will begin on Wednesday April 30 and continue through to Sunday May 4, with a significant rise in traffic expected, especially around Madrid, where both Thursday May 1 and Friday May 2 are public holidays.The DGT says the roads will start to fill up from Wednesday afternoon, with heavy congestion expected between 4.00pm and 11.00pm as people head out of the major cities to make the most of the long weekend.
Thursday won’t be much quieter. With many travelling to the coast, the mountains or local holiday spots, traffic is likely to be at its worst from 9.00am to 2.00pm. A mix of long-distance and local trips is expected to keep things busy throughout the day.
In most parts of the country, the return leg of the journey will begin later on Thursday. But in Madrid, where Friday is also a holiday, a different pattern is expected. Local day trips are likely to be the main cause of traffic there, especially in the evening, with the peak return time between 7.00pm and 9.00pm.
Friday May 2 will be a normal working day elsewhere in Spain, so the usual weekday traffic is expected. That will quickly shift again on Saturday May 3, when people head out for the weekend. Roads leading to holiday homes and tourist areas could be busy during the morning, with return traffic expected to pick up again later in the day.
Drivers are being encouraged to avoid peak times and plan their journeys carefully.
A spokesperson for the DGT said, “We are expecting high volumes on the roads over the coming days. We ask all drivers to remain patient and drive responsibly.”
Image: Furkan Films/Pexels
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