As summer 2024 draws to a close, Spain is bracing for a massive surge in road traffic as millions of people prepare to return home. The Spanish General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has announced that from Friday, August 30, at 3.00 pm until midnight on Sunday, September 1, there will be an estimated 4.7 million long-distance trips.
This period marks the end-of-summer travel operation, aimed at ensuring safe travel for everyone on the road.
Staggered movements and traffic peaks
The return to daily routines will coincide with a mix of outbound and inbound traffic. Many travellers will be heading back to their usual residences after the summer break, while others are just beginning their September holidays. The DGT expects the heaviest traffic on Sunday, September 1, as travellers make their way from coastal tourist areas to major urban centers. In addition, many vehicles will be moving toward holiday destinations, causing significant congestion.
Expect high traffic volumes and potential delays around border crossings as people return to their home countries across Europe. Traffic is anticipated to peak between Friday afternoon and Sunday evening, with the busiest periods being Friday from 4.00 pm to 10.00 pm and Sunday from 4.00 pm to 11.00 pm.
Traffic forecasts for the weekend
- Friday, August 30: Heavy traffic was expected from the afternoon through the late evening, especially between 4.00 pm and 10.00 pm, as people leave large urban areas and head toward coastal regions and leisure destinations.
- Saturday, August 31: Traffic will continue to be heavy in the morning as holidaymakers leave major cities, particularly between 9.00 am and 1.00 pm. The afternoon will see an increase in return traffic as people head back to urban areas after their vacations.
- Sunday, September 1: Expect significant congestion on coastal routes in the morning as travellers head to beaches. From early afternoon to late evening, there will be a high volume of vehicles returning from holiday spots to major cities.
DGT safety measures and resources
To manage the expected traffic surge and ensure road safety, the DGT has implemented several measures. These include traffic regulation, management, and surveillance, with support from the Guardia Civil Traffic Group, staff from eight Traffic Management Centres, and emergency services.
The DGT will also deploy a variety of technical resources, including fixed and mobile speed cameras, Pegasus helicopters, drones, and camouflaged vehicles to monitor compliance with traffic laws. Reversible and additional lanes will be set up using cones and signs during peak times to ease congestion, and alternative routes will be suggested to avoid traffic jams.
To further assist in managing traffic, the DGT will suspend road works, limit sporting and other events that could impact road use, and restrict truck movements on certain routes during specific times.
Road safety tips for drivers
The DGT advises all drivers to prioritise safety by adhering to traffic regulations, planning trips carefully, and avoiding peak traffic times when possible. It’s also crucial to conduct a thorough check of your vehicle before setting out. Ensure that brakes, lights, battery, tyres, and other essentials are in good condition.
Drivers should stay well-rested, avoid alcohol and drugs, and remain vigilant for any traffic updates. Check the latest road conditions through the DGT’s communication channels, including their website, Twitter accounts, and the information hotline at 011.
For more detailed information about the traffic management plan for this period, visit the DGT’s official website.
By following these guidelines and staying informed, you can help ensure a safe journey during this busy travel period.
Also read: DGT urges caution as traffic accidents surge in Andalucia