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Baden-Württemberg Braces for Traffic Chaos During Long Ascension Day Weekend
As the long weekend with Ascension Day approaches, motorists in Baden-Württemberg should prepare for heavy traffic on numerous routes. According to the ADAC, the region is gearing up for numerous traffic jams, with the busiest period expected on Wednesday between 13:00 and 19:00.
"Commuters and vacationers will be on the roads at the same time, which will result in severe congestion," explains Holger Bach, head of the traffic and environment department at the ADAC. In 2024, the day before Ascension Day was one of the most congested days of the year, making this year's long weekend particularly precarious.
Construction sites on motorways have the potential to exacerbate traffic jams. If lanes are lost due to construction work, backups are almost inevitable in the event of accidents or high traffic volumes, according to Bach.
The following are some of the current construction sites with a high traffic jam potential:- A5 Darmstadt-Heidelberg in both directions between Hemsbach and Hirschberg- A5 Basel towards Karlsruhe between Rastatt-Nord and Karlsruhe Süd- A6 Mannheim-Heilbronn in both directions between Kreuz Walldorf and Wiesloch/Rauenberg- A7 Würzburg-Ulm in both directions between Feuchtwangen-West and Rastplatz Mühlbruck- A8 Stuttgart-Karlsruhe in both directions between Pforzheim-Süd and Pforzheim-Nord- A8/A81 at the Leonberg junction- A81 Singen-Stuttgart in both directions between Oberndorf am Neckar and Empfingen
Holger Bach advises that those who have the time should start their short vacation in the evening or on Thursday to arrive faster. "The motorways in Baden-Württemberg will be more relaxed on Friday or Saturday," he notes.
Sunday is expected to be more congested than a typical Sunday, though it should still have fewer traffic jams than Wednesday due to the absence of commuters. Leaving the motorway during traffic jams is not usually advisable, as alternative routes can also be congested. Instead, motorists should leave the motorway during traffic jams of more than ten kilometers in length or in case of a complete closure.
It is worth noting that increased border controls may be implemented when entering Germany, according to the ADAC. Travelers should plan accordingly.
Last year, the ADAC recorded 239 traffic jams on Baden-Württemberg's roads on the Wednesday before Ascension Day, trailing 896 kilometers and accumulating 272 hours of waiting time.
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For general tips on navigating traffic during long weekends like Ascension Day, consider the following advice:- Plan your route carefully, considering alternative routes to avoid major congestion points.- Check traffic conditions before you leave using traffic apps or websites, and avoid peak travel times.- Take breaks at rest stops or parking areas to avoid fatigue while driving.- Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, with proper tire pressure, sufficient fuel, and no known mechanical issues.- Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including snacks, water, and a first-aid kit.- Monitor local news and traffic updates for any unexpected road closures or construction.
"Despite the traffic chaos anticipated in Baden-Württemberg during the Ascension Day weekend, those embarking on a vacation may find it beneficial to start their journey in the evening or on Thursday, as suggested by Holger Bach. Furthermore, car enthusiasts should ensure their vehicles are well-maintained for the long travels ahead, and pack an emergency kit for any unforeseen circumstances on the road."
