busiest travel days on highways

Driving this Christmas? Here's how to avoid the worst traffic.

It's going to be a busy holiday travel season, especially for those who are planning to hit the road to reach their final destination.

AAA projects 115.2 million travelers between Dec. 23 and New Year's Day – and 90% of those people will be going by car. It'll be the second-highest on record of drivers following 2019.

"This year-end holiday forecast, with an additional 2.5 million travelers compared to last year, mirrors what AAA Travel has been observing throughout 2023," Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel, said in a statement.

With packed roads, driving times can take up to 20% longer, according to Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX. Travelers in major metro areas such as Denver, Minneapolis and Washington, D.C., may encounter almost double the typical delays, he added.

Despite the serious congestion, there is some good news: Gas prices this holiday season will be the same or lower than last year.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Here's everything you need to know about driving to your holiday destination.

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What are the best times to travel by car?

Drivers with flexibility in their travel plans should hit the road on Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Year's Eve and New Year's to avoid the worst traffic.

On Saturday, Dec. 23, early birds who leave before 10 a.m. will get the worm (hit less traffic).

The days between Christmas and New Year's (Tuesday, Dec. 26; Wednesday, Dec. 27; Thursday, Dec. 28; Friday; Dec. 29; and Saturday, Dec. 30) will be the most hectic on the roads. The least traffic will be before noon.

What are the worst times to travel by car?

Drivers can anticipate the worst traffic before Christmas on Dec. 23 between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.

After Christmas, on Wednesday, Dec. 27, the roads are forecasted to be packed between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., and between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Dec. 28 and 29, according to INRIX.

As people head to their New Year's destinations, the worst traffic will be between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Dec. 30.

Peak congestion times in major US cities

To steer clear of bumper-to-bumper traffic, be smart about the routes and timing of your drive. "Avoid peak commuting hours and use traffic apps, local DOT notifications, and 511 services to minimize holiday travel traffic frustrations," Pishue said.

◾ Worst route: Augusta to Atlanta via I-20 West.

◾ Worst day: Dec. 30.

◾ Worst time: 7:15 p.m. 

◾ Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 56 minutes.

◾ Worst route: Boston to Portsmouth via I-95 North.

◾ Worst day: Dec. 23.

◾ Worst time: 4:15 p.m. 

◾ Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 41 minutes.

◾ Worst route: Fort Collins to Denver via I-25 South.

◾ Worst day: Dec. 29.

◾ Worst time: 2 p.m. 

◾ Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 40 minutes.

Los Angeles

◾ Worst route: Bakersfield to Los Angeles via I-5 South.

◾ Worst day: Dec. 27.

◾ Worst time: 6:15 p.m. 

◾ Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 41 minutes.

Minneapolis

◾ Worst route: Eau Claire to Minneapolis via I-94 West.

◾ Worst day: Dec. 28.

◾ Worst time: 10:15 a.m. 

◾ Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 7 minutes.

◾ Worst route: New York to Hamptons via Long Island Expy East.

◾ Worst time: 2:30 p.m.

◾ Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 8 minutes.

San Francisco

◾ Worst route: San Francisco to Sacramento via I-80 East.

◾ Worst time: 5:15 p.m.

◾ Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 49 minutes.

◾ Worst route: Baltimore to Washington, D.C., via Balt/Wash Pkwy South.

◾ Worst time: 3:45 p.m.

◾ Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 1 minute.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

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Best Day of the Week to Travel By Car (or RV)

What's the best day of the week to travel by car (or rv) here's the answer.

• 1 What's the best day of the week to travel by car (or RV)? Here's the answer!
• 2 Factors That Affect the Best Day to Drive
• 3 The Best Day of the Week to Travel by Car (or RV)
• 4 Worst Day of the Week to Travel by Car (or RV)
• 5 Best Times of the Day to Travel by Car (or RV)
• 6 Worst Times of Day to Travel by Car (or RV)
• 7 Other Things to Consider
• 8 Travel Insurance
• 9 RV GPS Apps
• 10 RV Lifestyle eBooks and Guides

Is it time to set out on the great American road trip? Driving in the United States is almost like a rite of passage for some people. It is a great way to see different locations, from rural countryside to big cities.

You also encounter negative things, like traffic.

It does not matter what you drive: your own car, a rental car, giant RV, small RV, or camper van. You do not want to find yourself in poor driving conditions.

That is why I put together the following guide about the best day of the week to travel by car. It'll tell you the best days and times to travel so that you can avoid gridlock and the headaches that come along with it. It can also help you avoid an accident, especially if this will be your first time taking a road trip.

Factors That Affect the Best Day to Drive

There are many factors that can impact the best day of the week to travel by car (or RV). Traffic and accident information is important, but we need to factor things like campground availability, too.

In addition, I have taken into consideration the best times to access gas stations, grocery stores, and hardware stores.

One great traffic and accident resource I pulled information from is the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) .

The Best Day of the Week to Travel by Car (or RV)

According to the statistics, the best day of the week to travel by car (or RV) is Wednesday . Tuesday is your second best choice.

When asking RVers when they like to travel, most cited Tuesday as the best day to drive. Monday was their second favorite day (probably because it's the first day after a weekend stay).

No matter if you travel on Tuesday or Wednesday, there are some advantages. The traffic tends to be lighter in and around big cities on those days of the week.

Another reason is that there will be more availability at first-come, first-served campgrounds. Most crowds come nearer the weekend. You can be settled in and exploring the area before many of the other travelers arrive.

Another reason those days make great driving days are that most service shops and other stores are open midweek. If you have an emergency, it will be easier to get help. Or, if you need to pick up any forgotten items, you will be able to do so.

Worst Day of the Week to Travel by Car (or RV)

According to the IIHS website, most fatal vehicle collisions occur on Saturday. The second most deadly day of the week is Friday, followed closely by Sunday.

Overall, the statistics show weekend driving is more dangerous than driving during the week. That is likely because more people are on the road during non-rush hour times.

They may also be embarking on long drives, or taking a scenic route, to travel somewhere. A long trip includes more gas stops or visits to historic sites. All of which can lead to higher fatigue levels.

Furthermore, weekends' evenings tend to be more dangerous due to the increase of impaired drivers on the road. There are more people that drive drunk or under the influence of drugs than on weekdays. It is always a good idea to be a particularly defensive driver when traveling on weekend evenings!

On the weekends, people may have additional distractions, like children. Especially if they are driving the family to popular destinations. Family outings can cause longer stops, and overall longer days on the road, adding to parental fatigue.

When asked, RV owners tend to claim Sunday as the worst driving day. That is because the increased traffic can be nightmarish.

In addition, many businesses are closed on Sundays. Mechanic shops and stores tend to be closed those days, especially in small towns. An urgent matter on the open road may not be able to get addressed until Monday.

If traveling midweek is not possible for you, a great option may be to try and extend your weekend by a day. Traveling on Thursday or Monday can make for a safer and freer drive. If you are tied to travel on the weekends, a very good time to leave is in the early morning hours.

Best Times of the Day to Travel by Car (or RV)

It is usually a good option to leave in the morning if possible. Any time between dawn and 10:00 am tends to be the most popular choices.

Consider where you are leaving from. If you must travel through a big city, think about what time of day you need to get around big city traffic .

For example, when driving north from San Diego, you do not want to arrive in the Los Angles area during rush hour traffic.

Something else to consider is the direction that you will be driving. Heading west provides you with a good reason to leave in the morning, That way you will not have the sun in your eyes!

When driving east, afternoon driving is one of the best things you can do to avoid the sun.

Worst Times of Day to Travel by Car (or RV)

Overall, the worst time of day to travel is when it is dark outside. That includes both morning and night hours that do not have sunlight. Darkness comes with more impaired and fatigued drivers and colder temps that can worsen road conditions.

In addition, you want to consider when you will be hitting a big city. That way you can plan to avoid hitting their morning or evening rush hour traffic times.

Other Things to Consider

Now that you know the best day of the week to travel by car, here are some more things to consider.

Travel Insurance

While travel insurance might be an extra cost, it can cover you well in case of an emergency. Or, if you have to cancel some part of your trip due to extenuating circumstances.

RV GPS Apps

RV Life App and RV Trip Wizard can provide you with safe turn-by-turn routing that can help with trip planning. Get the best routes, especially if this is your first RV road trip!

Here are some other helpful apps to help you avoid traffic jams .

RV Lifestyle eBooks and Guides

RV Lifestyle has tons of eBooks and guides that can help you plan the most epic cross-country road trip! Are you visiting New Mexico, or somewhere else in the American west? Or maybe the Florida Keys?

Save a bundle by getting our eBook bundle…

Published on 2021-09-23

Mike Wendland is a multiple Emmy-award-winning Journalist, Podcaster, YouTuber, and Blogger, who has traveled with his wife, Jennifer, all over North America in an RV, sharing adventures and reviewing RV, Camping, Outdoor, Travel and Tech Gear for the past 12 years. They are leading industry experts in RV living and have written 18 travel books.

6 Responses to “Best Day of the Week to Travel By Car (or RV)”

June 14, 2023at12:54 pm , Shirley Jones said:

Is Sunday on Father’s Day a busy drive on Tn 40 to 75 around Atlanta ga

June 15, 2023at6:43 pm , Team RV Lifestyle said:

Not sure but I think it is safe to say that Atlanta is just about always a busy drive. 🙂 Team RV Lifestyle

February 03, 2023at10:13 am , Rigoberto Reategui said:

I love your articles.

February 06, 2023at3:32 pm , Team RV Lifestyle said:

Thanks, Rigoberto! Team RV Lifestyle

September 24, 2021at10:30 am , Susan Pope said:

I agree with most of the points made in the article. One other consideration, we have found, is construction. One positive point about is week-end is that most construction zones are not active on the week-end. We have found less delays due to construction driving on Sunday. It may not be enough to overcome the negatives of week-end travel but it is something to consider.

September 23, 2021at9:45 am , Best Day of the Week to Travel By Car (or RV) – Corky's Pages said:

[…] [Follow link] […]

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These Are the Best and Worst Times to Hit the Road This Holiday Season

Holiday travelers, take note

If you're planning a holiday road trip over the next few days, be prepared for heavy traffic.

This year, more than 109 million Americans are expected to travel 50 miles or more between Dec. 23 and Jan. 2, according to a new study from American Automobile Association (AAA) and transportation analytics company INRIX. Of that number, just over 100 million are planning to reach their holiday destinations by car—a 27.6 percent increase from 2020.

“Americans who canceled their vacations in 2020 want to gather with family and friends for the holidays this year, although they will still be mindful of the pandemic and the new omicron variant,” said Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel. “With vaccines widely available, conditions are much different and many people feel a greater level of comfort with travel.”

While the roads will be near pre-pandemic levels this holiday season, there are two days in particular that travelers need to be especially mindful of. "The worst days for delay are actually right before New Year's ... so the 27th and 28th," Bob Pishue, a transportation analyst at INRIX, told USA TODAY . 

The best days for travel? Not surprisingly, Christmas Day and New Year's Day.

"With kids out of school and many Americans taking extended time off for the holidays, drivers will experience incremental delays throughout the week. Although congestion will be overall lighter than normal, knowing when and where major delays will likely happen will help save time and reduce stress this holiday season,” said Pishue in the AAA report.

While INRIX predicts "only marginal delays overall" the week between Christmas and New Year's, the company says that the biggest metro areas in the U.S. may see "more than double the delays versus typical drive times. The New York City metro area—specifically I-278 South from I-495 to 3rd Avenue—will experience the biggest delays, with a 358 percent increase above average on Dec. 27 between 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

AAA concedes that their predictions could fluctuate over the next few days: With the U.S. seeing a seven-day moving average of 125,000 new COVID cases per day, we may end up seeing fewer drivers on the road as would-be travelers cancel their trips.

However, Dr. Anthony Fauci, chief director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) assured travelers during an appearance on CNN on Wednesday : "I believe if people follow the recommendations of the CDC about indoor masking, take the advice of getting vaccinated and getting boosted, we should be fine for the holidays, and we should enjoy it with our family and our friends."

American Automobile Association. "'Tis the Season: More Than 109 Million Americans to Travel for the Holidays." December 14, 2021.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Trends in Number of COVID-19 Cases and Deaths in the US Reported to CDC, by State/Territory." December 17, 2021.

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These Are the Busiest Travel Days of the Year, According to TSA

The holidays and holiday weekends often bring with them some of the most congested days at the country’s airports and on the roads..

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The Tuesday and Wednesday just before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after Thanksgiving are often among the busiest travel days of the year.

Photo by Jim Lambert / Shutterstock

Every year, millions of people embark on journeys, whether for business or leisure. After a few years of much less crowded airports due to the pandemic, the International Air Transport Association is reporting that passenger numbers are just about what they were prepandemic levels.

However, there have already been a number of days that have surpassed prepandemic levels and they’ve largely fallen right before or after holidays.

Take Independence Day, for example. In 2023, AAA projected that 4.17 million people flew over the July Fourth holiday period, surpassing the previous air travel record of 3.91 million travelers, set in 2019. Similarly, TSA screened a record number of passengers on the Sunday following Thanksgiving in 2022, with more than 2.56 million passengers.

According to the TSA, the busiest travel days of the year are usually the Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after Thanksgiving . TSA recorded its highest passenger screening volume in its history on the Sunday after Thanksgiving in 2019, when nearly 2.9 million passengers passed through TSA checkpoints. But Thanksgiving and Christmas aren’t the only times we can expect busy airports. Here are the busiest travel day of the year.

Busiest travel days of the year

Thanksgiving and Christmas tend to be the busiest travel days of the year, but other holidays like Memorial Day, July Fourth, and Labor Day also see some of the highest volumes of air passengers.

So far this year, daily passenger numbers have been growing each month. In all of 2022, only one day had more than 2.5 million air passengers in the United States: November 27 (the Sunday after Thanksgiving), with 2.560 million. As of August 20, 2023, there had already been more than 75 days in the calendar year that had surpassed 2.5 million air passengers, according to TSA checkpoint data .

These have been the five busiest travel days in the last full year:

• July 30: 2.793 million passengers
• July 28: 2.785 million passengers
• July 23: 2.789 million passengers
• June 30: 2.884 million passengers (the new record for the busiest air travel day ever in the United States)
• June 16: 2.785 million passengers

For reference, the busiest travel day in all of 2019 was November 27, with 2.882 million passengers.

The busiest travel days around Christmas and New Year’s, historically

As for Christmas and New Year’s Eve, the number of travelers is likely to ramp up during the end of December and into early January as well. In 2019, the highest number of travelers during the Christmas and New Year period was on Friday, December 17 (one week before Christmas), when 2.6 million travelers passed through TSA checkpoints. The second busiest day was Christmas Eve, with 2.58 million travelers, followed by the day after Christmas with 2.57 million travelers.

New York City consistently ranks as one of the top domestic travel destinations for the holidays.

Photo by Elias Andres Jose/Unsplash

Tips for flying during the busiest times of the year

There are a few ways to make travel easier and clear busy TSA checkpoints more quickly, this holiday season.

Get TSA PreCheck, Clear, and/or Global Entry

Never have these security expediting services been more valuable than during the current congestion happening at U.S. airports. TSA PreCheck recently reduced its prices from $85 to $78 for a five-year membership, and it’s only $70 to renew . Clear costs $189 per year. International travelers should consider the $100 Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck, for expedited customs screening upon arrival in the United States—and there’s a secret way to speed up the application process .

Check to see if your airport has a fast-pass security lane you can book in advance—for free

No TSA PreCheck or Clear? Select U.S. airports are giving travelers the option to make an advance “fast pass” reservation to head to the front of the security line—free of charge. We’ve compiled the full list of airports that offer this service .

Consider traveling with carry-on only

For those who don’t want to risk their luggage getting lost during a busy travel time when airports remain understaffed, traveling with carry-on may be your best bet. Another alternative? Luggage-shipping services .

Know what you can bring through security

If you’re traveling with carry-on, know what you can and cannot pack in said carry-on. By now, you know you can only carry on liquids in containers 3.4 ounces or smaller, so be sure that holiday items such as gravy, cranberry sauce, or wine are either left behind or packed in a checked bag as they are considered liquids and could otherwise be confiscated (and create delays). Check AFAR’s in-depth guide to what foods you can bring through TSA to make sure that what you’ve packed in your carry-on can pass through security.

Thoroughly check your bags before leaving the house

TSA recommends that travelers fully empty their bags prior to packing to make sure that they don’t accidentally bring something to the airport that they didn’t intend to bring, which could cause further delays.

Monitor the weather

Check the weather and forecasts that are available on sites such as the National Weather Service , the Weather Channel , and AccuWeather so that you can be prepared for possible disruptions and establish back-up plans for delayed travel.

Get to the airport earlier than you’d think

The lines and wait times at the country’s airports (and abroad, too) are longer than they’ve been in years. Best to arrive early and have some extra time postsecurity than risk missing your flight waiting in an hours-long check-in or security line. Aim for at least two hours before domestic flights and at least three for international flights.

Know if and when you are due a refund because of a delayed or canceled flight

On September 1, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) launched a new Aviation Consumer Protection website to help travelers track down what kind of refunds or compensation their airline should provide when there is a cancellation or delay.

Airlines aren’t required to compensate passengers when flights are delayed or canceled due to problems deemed beyond the company’s control, like bad weather. They also aren’t required to provide a refund when the passenger initiates the cancellation or flight change. But a refund is required by U.S. law when the airline cancels, delays, or alters a flight, or passengers are involuntarily bumped from a flight that is oversold or due to issues originating from the airline, such as operational or staffing problems.

Additionally, after the federal government began cracking down on airlines this year, all of the major U.S. airlines vowed to provide meal vouchers for delays of more than three hours and to provide transfers and hotel stays to passengers affected by an overnight cancellation. They have all also agreed to rebook travelers on an alternate flight at no added cost due to a delay or cancellation and most will also rebook on a partner airline.

This article originally appeared online in 2018; it was most recently updated in August 2023 to include current information.

Christmas travel tips: Best and worst days to fly or drive

AAA predicts this holiday season will be the busiest ever for air travel.

Millions of Americans are gearing up to hit the highway and take to the skies ahead of the holidays.

Here's what you need to know before packing your bags:

Holiday travel by air

AAA predicts this holiday season will be the busiest ever for air travel, with 7.5 million people projected to fly from Saturday, Dec. 23 to Monday, Jan. 1. This would break the record high of 7.3 million flyers set during the 2019 holiday season.

Thursday, Dec. 21 and Friday, Dec. 22 are forecast to be the busiest days for departures, according to Hopper.

Domestic airfares are averaging $349 round trip -- a 3% increase from last year, according to Hopper.

The cheapest days to fly will be Dec. 19, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, according to Hopper. The most expensive days are Dec. 22 and Dec. 26.

United Airlines said it expects its busiest-ever holiday travel season, with about 9 million passengers planning to fly from Dec. 21 to Jan. 8. This is a 12% jump from last year.

United said it anticipates Dec. 22 and Dec. 23 will be its busiest days for Christmas travel, while Jan. 2 will be the busiest day for New Year's travel.

MORE: Southwest hit by record $140M fine for holiday service meltdown in 2022 that left millions stranded

Delta Air Lines is preparing for nearly 9 million customers during its holiday travel period, which runs from Dec. 21 to Jan. 7.

Delta said its peak days are expected to be Dec. 21 to Dec. 22 and Dec. 26 to Dec. 30.

Holiday travel by road

AAA expects 104 million people to hit the road over the holidays -- a 1.8% increase from last year.

The busiest days are forecast to be Saturday, Dec. 23; Thursday, Dec. 28; and Saturday, Dec. 30, according to transportation analytics company INRIX.

If you're leaving for the holidays on Dec. 23, the best time to head out the door is before 10 a.m., according to INRIX. And if you're heading home the day after Christmas, the roads will be emptiest before noon, INRIX said.

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Christmas Traffic: Best and Worst Times to Travel

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

Plan your holiday journey wisely with insights on Christmas traffic – discover the best and worst times to travel for a stress-free festive season.

The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also be a time of stress and frustration when it comes to travel. Whether you are flying, driving, or taking a train, you may face challenges such as crowded airports, Christmas traffic, or bad weather. How can you avoid these pitfalls and enjoy your holiday trip? The answer is simple: plan ahead. In this holiday travel guide, we will share with you some tips and insights on how to travel smartly and safely during the Christmas season. You will learn how to choose the best time to travel, how to pack efficiently, how to deal with potential problems, and more.

Table of Contents

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If you are planning to travel by car during the Christmas and New Year holidays, you might want to avoid some of the worst times to hit the road. According to Inrix , a global leader in transportation analytics, the worst times to travel during the Christmas holiday are usually two days before Christmas and two days after. To avoid the Christmas traffic, it’s best to stay away from these days if you can. Specifically, traffic tends to be the worst in the late afternoon and early evening on Thursday and Friday leading up to Christmas, especially in big cities.

On the bright side, Christmas traffic will be much lighter than Thanksgiving , which is one of the busiest travel days of the year. This is because the Christmas travel period is longer and more spread out, while Thanksgiving travel is concentrated in a few days. Additionally, it’s worth noting that, according to data from the United States Department of Transportation , road traffic still hasn’t returned to pre-COVID levels.

To help you plan your trip, we have researched recent years’ data and identified the following dates as the most problematic for traveling this year:

• Friday, December 22, 2023
• Saturday, December 23, 2023
• Tuesday, December 26, 2023
• Wednesday, December 27, 2023
• Thursday, December 28, 2023

Aside from the busiest travel days of the year, knowing the congested areas can help you smoothly navigate through the holiday rush. According to Inrix, Christmas traffic is expected to be especially heavy in major cities like Chicago, Seattle, and New York City. To avoid the worst congestion, here are the areas and times you should steer clear of during this festive season:

New York City

• December 27, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
• 358% above normal on Interstate 278 South from Interstate 495 to 3rd Avenue.
• December 27, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
• 270% above normal on Interstate 95 South from Interstate 395 to Virginia State Route 123.
• December 23, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
• 240% above normal on Interstate 290 West from Morgan Street to Wolf Road.
• December 28, 4:45 to 6:45 p.m.
• 215% above normal on Interstate 5 South from Washington State Route 18 to Washington State Route 7.
• December 23, 9:45 to 11:45 a.m.
• 209% above normal on U.S. Route 23 North from 8 Mile Road to Interstate 96.
• January 2, 3:45 to 5:45 p.m.
• 198% above normal on Interstate 85 South from Clairmont Road to Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.
• January 2, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
• 195% above normal on Interstate 10 West from Sjolander to Texas State Highway Spur 330.

Los Angeles

• January 2, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
• 194% above normal on Interstate 405 South from Sunset Boulevard to Interstate 105.
• December 23, 1:45 to 3:45 p.m.
• 155% above normal on Interstate 93 North from Quincy Market to Route 28.

San Francisco

• December 23, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
• 166% above normal on Interstate 80 North from Interstate 580 to San Pablo Dam Road.

For smooth and affordable travel during the holiday season, we recommend these dates for your trip, based on the traffic and flight price trends we have analyzed:

• Monday, Dec. 18, 2023
• Tuesday, Dec. 19, 2023
• Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023
• Sunday, Dec. 24, 2023
• Monday, Dec. 25, 2023

If you’re hitting the roads on these dates, it’s best to start your holiday journey early, before 7 a.m. or after the morning rush between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m., regardless of the day you plan to leave. You might also want to explore alternative routes to avoid major city traffic during peak holiday travel times. If your schedule allows, consider leaving on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, when there are typically fewer cars on the road. This can make your travel experience more relaxed.

Additionally, we recommend planning your return from holiday travels on these days to ensure you’re back home before New Year’s:

• Thursday, Dec. 28, 2023
• Friday, Dec. 29, 2023

Returning on these dates can help you avoid the rush and ensure a smoother journey as you head back home.

Once you’ve figured out the best days to travel, it’s crucial to ensure you’re well-prepared, especially if you’re traveling by car. Take these steps to avoid any unexpected issues and make your trip smoother:

Vehicle Check-Up

• Get an oil change and have a certified mechanic inspect your vehicle thoroughly.
• Check the battery, fluid levels, lights, windshield wipers, brakes, belts, and hoses.
• Ensure tires are in good condition and consider the appropriate seasonal adjustments, such as putting on winter tires or chains when necessary.

Preparation the Night Before

• Load up your car the night before departure.
• Pack enough snacks and water for the trip.
• Don’t forget to bring a spare cell phone charger.

Emergency Preparedness

• Pack a roadside emergency kit with essentials like jumper cables.
• Ensure your spare tire and jack are in good working order.

Roadside Assistance

Consider signing up for services like AAA or other roadside assistance policies. This ensures you have someone to call for help if needed.

Weather Monitoring

• Stay informed about changing weather conditions.
• Be aware of potential delays and road closures, especially due to snowstorms.

As New Year’s Day approaches, it’s crucial to recognize the risks of drunk driving during the festive season. Data reveals that drunk drivers account for 40% of fatal car crashes between Christmas and New Year’s, especially with the extra volatility of the weather conditions during this period. This spike is likely due to holiday parties, as many people are off work and school. The combination of late-night celebrations and alcohol consumption can lead to hazardous conditions, including reduced vision, delayed reactions, poor judgment, and loss of control.

If you’re planning to partake in the festivities and anticipate enjoying some drinks, it’s essential to plan ahead and prioritize safety. One way to do this is by securing the services of a professional chauffeur, ensuring the safety of everyone involved. Leave the transportation to Blacklane , your trusted partner for hassle-free and smooth travel experiences. With our chauffeured services, you can enjoy the convenience of immediate booking, arriving in style, and traveling in comfort, all while relying on our top-quality service.

We’ve shared some useful planning tips on dealing with Christmas traffic. If you want to make your Christmas and New Year travels even more relaxing and comfortable, why not book a ride with Blacklane? Blacklane is the ultimate choice for hassle-free transportation, whether you’re going to a family gathering, a holiday party, or a winter getaway. You can choose from our range of high-quality vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and vans, to suit your needs and preferences. All our rides are carbon offset , ensuring a responsible choice for your footprint. Simply select the best time for you, and let our professional chauffeurs take care of the rest. Worried about changes? No problem. You can easily modify or cancel any pre-booked ride for free up to 1 hour before your scheduled ride. 

For an even more seamless travel experience, consider replacing your short-haul flight with our City to City rides . Say goodbye to the stress of mass transit, and hello to the simplicity of chauffeured rides. With door-to-door service, you can skip the lines and avoid the hassle of switching between modes of transportation. Experience the comfort of a private journey, tailored to your schedule and preferences, making every mile of your trip as enjoyable as the destination itself. 

FAQs about Christmas Traffic

For Christmas Eve travel, the best time to hit the roads is from Monday, December 18, to December 25. Aim to start your journey early, before 7 a.m. or after the morning rush between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m., regardless of the day you plan to leave.

The worst times to travel during the Christmas holiday are usually two days before Christmas and two days after.

Christmas traffic usually starts to increase in mid-December, as people begin to travel for shopping, visiting, or vacationing. 

Generally, it is advisable to avoid the days and times when most people are returning from their holiday trips, such as December 26, 27, and 28, and January 1 and 2. 

To dodge Christmas traffic, plan ahead by checking traffic conditions, weather, and road closures. Opt for less congested routes, alternative transportation, or off-peak departure times. Stay flexible, be patient, and have a backup plan for unexpected delays or emergencies.

Traffic can be bad the day after Christmas, especially in the morning and afternoon, as many people return from their holiday trips or take advantage of post-Christmas sales. 

Christmas Day is usually not very busy at airports, as most people prefer to travel before or after the holiday. 

The two days before Christmas Day that are usually the least crowded at airports are December 23 and 24, as most people try to avoid traveling on these days. 

Ellie Smith

Ellie is an avid traveler, writer, and adventurer, with a passion for exploring the world and sharing her experiences through storytelling. Working for global chauffeur company Blacklane and having lived in cities like Dubai and Berlin, she has gained valuable first-hand experience in uncovering hidden gems worldwide.

After signing up for the newsletter, you will also receive occasional news stories and promotions from Blacklane via email. We will not sell or distribute your email address to any third party at any time. View our Privacy Policy.

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• The 5 Worst Travel Days for 2024

During certain times of the year, traveling from one destination to the next involves overcrowded airports, delayed airline flights, vehicle traffic on the highways, and millions of grumpy passengers no matter which direction you’re headed. To help maintain your love for travel, or just your sanity during the trip, it’s beneficial to be aware of the five worst travel days in the United States – and plan your trip accordingly.

1. Before and After Christmas (December 23-26)

The annual stats from AAA are in and nearly 115 million Americans hit the road or sky during the holiday season of 2023, the second-highest number of travelers since 2000. That astonishing figure includes those getting around by plane, train, and automobile throughout the last two weeks of the year. Because of the prevalence of traveling over the holidays, two days before and the day after Christmas hold steady as the top worst travel days of the year, every year.

Compare personal loans to help pay for travel or a vacation.

The problem lies in the rapid increase in the number of people at the airport, the train station, and the freeway, all at the same time. It causes delays in what would otherwise be ‘normal’ traffic and flow, slowing everyone down and causing a less-than-cheerful scene in most major hubs around the country. The excess demand also pushes prices up, from gas for the car to a window seat on the plane. So if you’re planning to travel this coming holiday season, be prepared for these potential pitfalls on the biggest day.

Pro Tip : If you are planning for the 2024 winter holiday season, travel experts suggest looking at airline flights in early September to save some cash. If you aren’t able to book that far in advance, you may be able to score a good deal by waiting until right before your heavy travel day to purchase a flight ticket. You can also consider how to use your travel rewards credit card throughout the year to rack up valuable points before the holidays roll around.

2. The Day Before Thanksgiving (November 27th)

For 2023, AAA reports that more than 55 million people planned to travel 50 miles or more, with the majority traveling on Wednesday before the four-day holiday weekend. The figure was not the highest in recent history but came in at a close rebounding to pre-pandemic levels.

Around the Thanksgiving holiday, most people will hit the roads to visit family or friends. Airports will be less crowded during this time compared to other major travel seasons, but those who plan to fly also need to be aware of the delays that could take place.

Pro tip : Anyone who plans to travel for Thanksgiving should avoid Wednesday at all costs. Research suggests that the afternoon the day before the holiday can be the worst on the roads, leading to delays of up to four times as long as a normal day. Travel on Thanksgiving Day if possible. If you’re planning to fly, AAA recommends doing so the Monday before Thanksgiving if you want the least expensive options.

3. Day Before the 4 th of July (July 3rd)

In addition to the bustling holiday season, American travelers find an uncomfortable number of companions on the road and in the skies during big summer holidays. Third on the list is Independence Day, followed closely by Labor Day weekend. On July 4th, the airports and train stations are less congested than on other major US holidays, but the roads are packed to the brim.

For instance, the National Consumer Panel (NCP) reports that nearly 51 million people traveled on July 3rd and 4th in 2023. Short trips to see fireworks, visits to friends and family for a BBQ-fueled get-together or something else, and visiting national monuments or places of historical value all add up to a traffic-laden scene.

Pro Tip : Plan to travel the day of the Fourth of July holiday – not the day before – particularly if you are driving. For those who are flying, same-day routes are less congested and often less expensive, so plan accordingly.

4. Friday Before Memorial Day (May 26th)

Creeping up on July 4th travel statistics, Memorial Day weekend is another difficult time to be on the road. In 2023, an estimated 43 million travelers took off for a three-day weekend, starting early on the Friday before the holiday. Most people will drive their cars, trucks, or SUVs, making major highways a hectic place for those planning to get away this year.

Pro Tip : Travelers can avoid the mess and frustration of this frequently traveled day by waiting until Saturday of the holiday weekend to hit the road. Also, traveling by plane adds only small delays, compared to joining the roughly 37 million drivers. Avoid leaving town on Thursday or Friday afternoon if possible, and plan to return early the morning of Memorial Day to sidestep the chaos.

5. Friday Before Labor Day (August 30th)

Labor Day weekend in September each year closes out the list of the five worst travel days for Americans because it is seen as the last hoorah for families with children in school. Before the business of the school year kicks off for most, parents plan family vacations often ending on Labor Day weekend.

Traffic on the roads coming back from the countless beaches across the country combined with an increased number of groups of three or more flying home makes for a busy, typically delayed travel day. According to travel data company The Vacationer, 148 million people traveled on Labor Day weekend in 2023, making for countless traffic jams.

Pro tip : The worst day to travel during this specific holiday weekend is Friday afternoon. See if you can get out of dodge Thursday evening or before the sun rises Friday morning to help beat your fellow travelers to the punch. Plan for an early return on Monday to beat some of the traffic.

Other Busy Travel Holidays for the Year 2024

Other holidays throughout the year, including Easter (Sunday, March 31st, 2024) and New Year’s Eve (December 31st, 2024), also bring travel challenges and significant delays, particularly to those planning to drive to their destination. Avoiding traffic jams and the frustration that goes hand in hand with being stuck on a highway can be your best travel plan. Be sure to travel on the popular holiday itself, if possible, or go a few days in advance if you want to skip the madness.

Final Thoughts on Holiday Traveling Around the Busiest Days of the Year

Traveling is no longer an unreachable luxury for Americans, but thanks to more affordable ways to get from place to place, more individuals and families are taking advantage. You can avoid some of the headaches of the busiest travel days of the year by planning your next trip well in advance and shifting your dates to bypass the worst days.

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Posted on January 2, 2024 by Melissa in Personal Finance

Comments & Discussion

6 responses to “the 5 worst travel days for 2024”.

Hi Larry, these are just some general guidelines that make sense in most areas. I can’t say for sure on I75 of Florida, which may also depend on which direction you are traveling. There will likely be many people that have to work Monday, but another large group will take the day off to make it a 4 or 5-day weekend. It will probably be best to travel between 9am and 3pm on the 3rd and after rush hour traffic that day. Traveling on Independence day is typically a safer bet than on the 3rd or the 5th.

July 4th 2023 is on a Tuesday. Are Monday, the 3rd, and Tuesday, the 4th, good driving days on I75 from Florida through Atlanta with Atlanta on the 4th?

Hey Joan, it can be a busy time, especially when New Year’s Eve or Day falls on the weekend. However, it is not as busy as many of the other times for long-distance travel and will also depend on which way the majority of the traffic is going.

I’m moving to North Carolina from New Jersey and planned on leaving January 1st…is this a bust time?

Hi Ted, thanks for your feedback. Are you saying you’re certain Thanksgiving holiday travel falls within the top 5 worst travel days, or are you implying it should be mentioned even if it were #6 as it is certainly one of the busiest travel times of the year? Especially when you include Black Friday.

When you don’t even mention Thanksgiving travel, you’ve lost all credibility and show you have no idea what you are talking about.

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Thanksgiving travel tips: Best and worst days to fly or drive

Some airlines are expecting their busiest Thanksgiving ever.

As Thanksgiving approaches, millions of Americans are gearing up to hit the highway or head to the airport -- and some airlines are expecting their busiest Thanksgiving ever.

Here's what you need to know:

Thanksgiving travel by air

AAA projects 4.7 million travelers will fly over Thanksgiving -- a 6.6% increase from last year. This would mark the highest number of people flying for Thanksgiving since 2005.

The busiest and most expensive days to fly before Thanksgiving will be Tuesday, Nov. 21, and Wednesday, Nov. 22, according to AAA.

The best day to go to the airport for Thanksgiving is Monday, Nov. 20, when flights will be 12% cheaper than on Nov. 22, according to Expedia.

MORE: Thanksgiving food price forecast, retailers with early deals and expert savings tips

The Transportation Security Administration said it expects to screen 30 million passengers during its Thanksgiving travel period, which runs from Nov. 17 to Nov. 28.

"We expect this holiday season to be our busiest ever. In 2023, we have already seen seven of the top 10 busiest travel days in TSA's history," TSA Administrator David Pekoske said in a statement. "We are ready for the anticipated volumes and are working closely with our airline and airport partners to make sure we are prepared for this busy holiday travel season. We will also do our best to maintain wait time standards of under 10 minutes for TSA PreCheck® lanes and under 30 minutes for standard screening lanes."

The most popular domestic destinations for Thanksgiving this year are New York City, Los Angeles and Orlando, Florida, according to Hopper. Internationally, the most popular cities are London, Tokyo and Paris.

The cheapest days to return home will be Friday, Nov. 24, or Monday, Nov. 27, according to Hopper.

United Airlines said it expects to have its busiest Thanksgiving ever, with over 5.9 million passengers -- a 13% increase from last year.

MORE: Supermarkets like Giant, ShopRite giving free turkeys for Thanksgiving again

United anticipates that Sunday, Nov. 26, will be one of its busiest days since before the pandemic, with more than 517,000 people expected to fly.

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Due to remote work, United said its holiday travel period has extended. United said the demand for flying the Monday before Thanksgiving is up nearly 10% from 2019, while demand for flying the Wednesday before Thanksgiving is only up 3%.

American Airlines said it predicts a record 7.8 million passengers over Thanksgiving.

American said Sunday, Nov. 26, and Monday, Nov. 27, will be its busiest days.

"I think the best tip we can offer is to ask everyone to arrive early for your flights," said John Busch, TSA's federal security director at Reagan National Airport near Washington, D.C. "Recommendation is always two hours before a domestic flight, three hours before an international flight."

Thanksgiving travel by road

AAA projects that 55.4 million people will drive 50 miles or farther from home for Thanksgiving -- a 2.3% increase from last year. This marks the third-highest Thanksgiving forecast since AAA began tracking holiday travel in 2000.

The busiest day on the roads is expected to be Wednesday, Nov. 22, according to transportation analytics company INRIX. Drivers should leave home in the morning or after 6 p.m. to avoid the heaviest traffic, INRIX said.

On Sunday, Nov. 26, the worst traffic is forecast to be between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. The best time to hit the road will be before noon, according to INRIX.

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Busiest roads, worst times to travel: What to expect this Memorial Day weekend

The highways and airways should be significantly more crowded this year versus 2020 as vaccinations continue to ramp up and national COVID-19 cases plunge, but the increase in travel traffic will still fall short of pre-pandemic levels.

AAA estimates more than 37 million people are expected to travel by either air or ground this upcoming weekend , marking a 60% increase from last year when only 23 million traveled, the lowest on record since AAA began recording in 2000. The forecast is still 5.7 million shy, or 13% lower, than pre-pandemic travel volume.

Read more: 5 hottest destinations for Memorial Day weekend

Homebound-weary travelers will also face higher costs this year as they set out.

“We have so much pent up demand for travel, people are eager to hit the road or get to the airport,” Jeanette McGee, AAA spokesperson, told Yahoo Money. “The higher gas prices will not keep people home."

On the road

Motorists will have to contend with a host of issues, notably traffic, rental car shortages, and high gas prices.

The worst days and times to travel in most of the major metros is Thursday or Friday afternoons into early evening, according to data from Inrix provided to Yahoo Money from AAA.

Rental cars are also in short supply after rental car companies slashed fleets early in the pandemic to keep pace with cratering demand. The imbalance translates to high costs for renters — if they’re lucky enough to secure a rental at all.

Jonathan Weinberg, CEO and co-founder of AutoSlash, told Yahoo Money in April that rental cars in Hawaii are seeing a 9,900% increase in pricing compared with 2020. Visitors to Orlando, Denver, Las Vegas, Honolulu, and Maui will see the worst inventory shortages and highest prices, according to an analysis by Allianz Partners USA .

Another concern for drivers: pump pricing and availability. While AAA gas price surveys reveal that motorists are aware of higher gas prices, they aren’t upending travel plans, McGee said. Instead, drivers are changing their destinations to be closer to home or adjusting their itineraries to include free or discounted activities, McGee said.

The national gas price reached a seven-year high this month when the daily average shot up more than 14 cents from April and more than $1 from May 2020, per AAA . The average has since stabilized since the resolution of the Colonial Pipeline disruption earlier this month .

“We drove it up to a high of $3.04 and we've seen a little relief,” McGee said, adding that Wednesday’s national average has slightly receded to $3.03 but price fluctuation, especially in tourist hotspots, through the holiday is to be expected.

Crowds, waits, and expensive fares could be the norm for the 2.5 million air travelers venturing out this weekend.

Domestic air travel is rebounding with the TSA clocking a pandemic-high screening of 1.86 million people at U.S. airports on May 23. Compared with the same day in 2019, that’s still down more than 11%, but up a staggering 85% from 267,451 last year.

The increased passenger volume also comes with higher prices, with round-trip fares up 12% since April, according to Hopper, the travel forecasting app.

Travelers may also face longer wait times in airports. To maintain social distancing protocols, the TSA warns Americans to budget extra time and expect delays at security checkpoints.

“For those passengers returning to travel for the first time since 2019, be aware that some processes at the checkpoint have changed and some, like removing your shoes, remain in place,” said Darby LaJoye, senior official performing the duties of the TSA Administrator. “Additionally, during high volume months, travelers should plan to arrive early at the airport to complete the airport screening process and arrive timely at their departure gate.”

How to survive Memorial Day traffic

Those headed to Sin City should brace themselves for crowds this weekend as Las Vegas comes in at No. 1 on both AAA and Hopper’s forecasts for top destinations based on online search traffic and hotel and car rental bookings. Orlando is also primed to see crowds, coming in No. 2 and No. 3 for AAA and Hopper’s respective estimates.

Other hot spots include Miami, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Denver, Nashville, and Myrtle Beach in South Carolina, according to the two forecasts.

For a safe and breakdown-free road trip, AAA suggests that motorists exercise good judgment and precautions while behind the wheel:

Plan an advance route and road alternatives to avoid gridlocked highways or slowdowns.

Avoid peak commute times , especially Thursday and Friday evenings.

Don’t run on fumes . Refuel when you hit a quarter of a tank to avoid accidentally hitting empty.

Call ahead to gas stations to check on fuel supplies if you're in a region still recovering from this month’s pipeline disruption.

Be prepared for the unexpected by stashing an emergency roadside kit in your vehicle along with snacks and pandemic-era measures like masks and cleaning supplies.

Stephanie is a reporter for Yahoo Money and Cashay , a new personal finance website. Follow her on Twitter @SJAsymkos .

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The best times to drive for Thanksgiving

Here are the best routes and days to avoid traffic ahead of turkey day.

Nearly 49 million people plan to hit the road for Thanksgiving this year, meaning highways will be crowded if you don’t time your trip correctly, according to a projection released by AAA on Tuesday.

“Families and friends are eager to spend time together this Thanksgiving, one of the busiest for travel in the past two decades,” said Paula Twidale, AAA’s senior vice president of travel. “Plan ahead and pack your patience, whether you’re driving or flying.”

Thanksgiving is typically one of the busiest holidays for road trip s over 50 miles. This year, car travel is projected to be 0.4 percent higher than 2021, though still 2.5 percent below pre-pandemic levels in 2019, according to AAA.

Here’s what to know before getting in the car before Thanksgiving.

When should I fly or drive this holiday season? Send Post reporter your travel questions.

Best and worst times to drive

The best time to hit the road Thanksgiving week is Monday at 8 p.m. local time, according to Google , which examined its Maps data from last Thanksgiving in more than 20 major U.S. cities.

The worst traffic is expected when Thanksgiving drivers overlap with the regular evening commute on Tuesday and Wednesday, around 4 to 5 p.m. local time, per Google.

With many people unable to leave work and school until Wednesday, INRIX, a transportation analytics firm, partnered with AAA to provide congestion projections for the peak parts of Thanksgiving week.

Holiday travel prices are climbing high. Here’s how to save money.

INRIX also expects traffic to peak nationally on Wednesday afternoon. If you need to travel Wednesday, leave before 8 a.m. or after 8 p.m., the company recommends.

For those traveling by road on Turkey Day itself, the worst congestion will be from about 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., according to INRIX, so try to drive in the morning or after 6 p.m.

Traffic on the return trip should offer more flexibility, though Black Friday shopping could clog some roads, especially between noon and 4 p.m. on Friday, according to Google. Avoid driving between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, according to INRIX.

The firm recommends leaving before 11 a.m. if you’re driving on Friday or Sunday, and before 2 p.m. on Saturday. Alternatively, the roads will probably be more open after 8 p.m. on any of the three days.

Where to expect the worst traffic

The nation’s largest metro areas, especially New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago and Atlanta, will probably see significant increases over typical congestion, according to INRIX.

“Although travel times will peak on Wednesday afternoon nationally, travelers should expect much heavier than normal congestion throughout the holiday weekend,” said Bob Pishue, a transportation analyst at INRIX.

At peak Wednesday afternoon, New York City will see a 158 percent increase above typical traffic, Los Angeles 144 percent and Atlanta 105 percent. Traffic in those cities, along with Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Houston , San Francisco and Seattle, will peak Wednesday afternoon.

The only city tracked by INRIX where traffic will peak on a day other than Wednesday is D.C. Congestion in the nation’s capital is expected to be at its worst between 11:15 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. on Sunday, especially on the Capital Beltway and Interstate 95 to Route 123.

INRIX also tracked the individual highways across the country that are expected to see the biggest increases in traffic over a typical week. In New York, stay off I-278 south, where traffic will be 158 percent worse than normal. In L.A., avoid I-5 south and I-405 south, where traffic will be up 144 percent and 106 percent, respectively. Atlanta residents should avoid I-85 south, which will see 105 percent more traffic than usual.

A full list of expected traffic by corridor can be found here .

How much to budget for gas

One area where drivers should see some relief over last year: at the pump.

The national average for gas is $3.77 as of Monday, which is up 36 cents from a year ago and down 13 cents from a month ago, according to AAA . It’s also well below the $5-a-gallon peak that drivers were paying in June, thanks to steadying oil prices.

How to save on road trips

“There are now about 13 states with some stations selling gas below $3 a gallon,” said Andrew Gross, a AAA spokesperson. “More gas stations could follow, which may be a big help with road-trip budgeting as Thanksgiving approaches.”

The cheapest gas can be found in the South, especially Texas and Georgia, where average prices are below $3.20 per gallon. The Midwest saw the largest drop in prices over the past week, with Wisconsin gas prices falling 25 cents on average.

To budget for your road trip, AAA recommends its TripTik travel planner , which shows current gas prices along your route, as well as hotels, restaurants and attractions.

A previous version of this article incorrectly stated that the national average for gas is down 36 cents from a year ago. It is up 36 cents. This version has been corrected.

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Interstate travel - best on weekend or weekdays?

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I will be traveling in the near future on I-70 from Pennsylvania to Colorado, taking 3 days, and have flexibility to leave on the weekend or weekday. Any opinions or comments on what days have heavier truck travel? I was thinking that the weekends would seem lighter and am trying to avoid times with more trucks. Thanks!

Interesting Question

Welcome aboard the RoadTrip America Forums! While most of the advice we give here on RoadTrip America is based on personal experience and observation, your question caused me to do a bit of research, delving into spreadsheets, charts, and other graphs compiled by a few representative state departments of transportation. I was surprised that they all pretty much agree on the same answer and it's the answer that my gut (and my own observations) would have thought to be the case. The fact is that trucking is for all intents and purposes a 24/7 operation. The rigs are simply too expensive to be allowed to sit idle, and there is no real downtime. There is a barely perceptible decline on Sunday, but that is the only day of the week with any real decrease, and that is only by about 10% or so. Nothing you'd really notice out on the road. There is a significant drop between the hours of midnight and 5:00 am, but that's probably not of much use to you. So, yes include Sunday in your travel days, but don't really expect any really meaningful decrease in truck traffic even then. Just be thankful those guys are bringing you the vast majority of the goods in your local stores. AZBuck

Last edited by AZBuck; 03-28-2012 at 09:19 AM .

Preferences.

My preference is the complete opposite. I avoid weekends, and the weekend drivers some of whom think they own the road. From my experience driving back and forth across the country, the most courteous and considerate drivers on the road, are the professionals. And yes, on the whole - though not always - you will find fewer trucks on the road over the weekends. Lifey

A bigger concern to me is what time of day you will be hitting the larger cities, such as STL and KC. Weekday rush hours are a lot rougher than weekends. If you are only taking 3 days - depending on where in PA and where in CO - you will very likely be driving in both the morning and evening rush somewhere.

I'd forget the trucks

Hello GpsyLady, I concur with glc in that for your exact trip, I'd not worry about truck traffic and would instead try to avoid St Louis and Kansas City at either morning or evening rush hour. My own observations echo AZBuck's: I don't notice more or less truck traffic on weekends vs weekdays. Urban/suburban traffic is generally far worse on weekdays than on weekends. Foy

Thank you all for replying. I've done this trip alone (daughter lives in CO) about 5 times and have been trying to compile my trip experiences to make it an "exact science"...ha ha! I agree with you all about avoiding rush hour (made that mistake once!). Other than choosing a good weather window, I guess it's time to start driving. Thanks for the research AZBuck! Karen

One additional comment: on weekends, you see less construction workers out and about. Last year, we went from Central NJ (I-80) to eastern CO (Burlington) and took 3 days travel. First stop was around Springfield, OH, second stop in Columbia, MO, and then to Burlington. We went on to San Diego -- next stop was in Richfield UT, then home in San Diego. All days were between 500 and 600 miles, around 10-11 hours. Donna

Thanks, Donna. Great point about construction on weekends. I've come to the conclusion that weekday and weekend travel have both pros and cons, and I concur with Lifey about the non-professionals. I set my cruise control at 5 mph over and most cars pass me. But for some reason, they feel the need to pass then sit right in front of me then forget to give it gas. I have to brake, then pass, then resume my cruise. After that happens 2 or 3 times with the same car, I end up speeding up enough to get away from them. Very frustrating! I am a licensed boat captain and am very cognizant of safety and defensive operation of a vehicle or vessel. This site is very helpful, thanks!

It's spreading.

I set my cruise control at 5 mph over and most cars pass me. But for some reason, they feel the need to pass then sit right in front of me then forget to give it gas. I have to brake, then pass, then resume my cruise. After that happens 2 or 3 times with the same car, I end up speeding up enough to get away from them. Very frustrating! And theres me thinking that was unique to the UK ! LOL.

Wadda ye mean?

Originally Posted by Southwest Dave And theres me thinking that was unique to the UK ! LOL. I was thinking that it was unique to us downunder. Try handling it by setting your cruise just below the stated limit. Amazing how none of them want to slow down. Lifey

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These Are the Busiest Days to Travel for Christmas and New Year's, According to the TSA

Be prepared for airport congestion if you're flying on these days.

The Transportation Security Administration expects busy airport checkpoints this winter holiday season and is warning travelers to come prepared.

During its busiest days this season, the agency expects to screen more than 2.5 million passengers each day, a 6 percent increase compared to last year. The TSA said the most crowded days at airports across the country are forecast to be Thursday, Dec. 21, Friday, Dec. 29, and Monday, Jan. 1.

Last year, the busiest day was Dec. 29.

Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure

“We are prepared to handle the busy passenger volumes this winter holiday season,” TSA Administrator David Pekoske said in a statement . “TSA’s continued success during this record year for travel is a direct result of teamwork, planning and professional execution across the agency, from our frontline employees to those behind the scenes; partnerships with airports and air carriers; and innovative checkpoint technologies that improve security effectiveness, efficiency and the passenger experience.”

The start of Christmas and New Year’s travel — which airlines expect to be record-breaking — follows an equally busy Thanksgiving during which the TSA recorded the busiest day in its history . In total, a record 7.5 million travelers are forecast to fly over the end-of-year holidays, according to AAA .

To cope with the crowds, the TSA recommends travelers come prepared by knowing what they can and cannot bring through security. Certain holiday staples like pies are fine to bring in a carry-on bag, while others, like large bottles of eggnog, must be placed in a checked bag. Travelers should also think twice before wrapping gifts since TSA officers may have to unwrap them to inspect them.

Travelers who are unsure can check the “ What Can I Bring? ” page on the TSA’s website or ask the agency by texting a question to 275-872 or messaging the agency with the @AskTSA handle on X, formerly known as Twitter, or through Facebook Messenger.

The agency also wants travelers to be aware of new technology it is rolling out, like the Credential Authentication Technology (CAT), which allows travelers to get through security without having to show a boarding pass or, in some cases, even a physical ID ; and the full-size Computed Tomography (CT) x-ray system , which can create 3D images of carry-on items, allowing officers to detect things like weapons, explosives, and other banned items.

The Busiest Travel Days For Thanksgiving To Avoid In 2022

Early birds get the open road.

Pack your bags and take those vacation days, because Thanksgiving is almost here. As the holiday season kicks off, so does the season of over-crowded roads and airports. To make sure you get to your dinner on time, you’ll want to avoid the most congested travel times. Take note of the busiest Thanksgiving travel days and times for 2022 to help make your trip a little less stressful.

If you thought summer travels were busy, then you better prepare yourself for the holiday travel surge. AAA’s Thanksgiving Holiday Travel Forecast for 2022 predicts 54.6 million people will travel over 50 miles or more between Wednesday, Nov. 23 and Sunday, Nov. 27. That’s 1.5% more than in 2021, and it’s “just shy” of pre-pandemic travel volumes, per the motor club federation’s 2022 press release. If you’re one of millions traveling to get your turkey dinner and pumpkin pie, crowded airport trams and bumper-to-bumper traffic might seem inevitable, but you can try to outsmart the holiday chaos.

It may seem like a fool’s errand with traffic-filled highways and packed grocery stores and shopping centers , but a little planning could go a long way. With so many places to go — and so many people out and about — you’ll want to steer clear of the absolute worst travel times during Thanksgiving.

What Are The Busiest Travel Days Around Thanksgiving?

People are on the move this season in “one of the busiest [times] for travel in the past two decades,” AAA’s senior vice president of travel Paula Twidale said in a Nov. 15 press release. For Thanksgiving, 89.1% of travelers will be driving, while 8.3% of holiday travelers will be flying to their destination. Catch the other 2.6% of travelers on a bus, a train, or a cruise ship.

Busiest Times To Drive During Thanksgiving Week:

AAA reported “INRIX expects severe congestion in several U.S. metro areas, with some drivers experiencing more than double normal delays.” So, have those road trip playlists and podcasts saved. According to AAA’s predictions for Thanksgiving 2022 and Google data looking at traffic patterns in 20 U.S. cities, these are the busiest times on the road (all hours are local time):

• Tuesday, Nov. 22: Traffic peaks between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. early in the week.
• Wednesday, Nov. 23: The worst time to travel is between 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., with the height of congestion coming between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m.
• Thursday, Nov. 24 (Thanksgiving): The worst time to travel is between 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the traffic will continue to be a factor from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• Friday, Nov. 25 (Black Friday): Traffic will start to get heavy around noon, and the worst time to travel is between 4p.m. and 8 p.m. Although, according to Google, the traffic at the end of night will be less than during the early evening.
• Saturday, Nov. 26: The worst time to travel is between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.
• Sunday, Nov. 27: Same as the day before, traffic will be the worst between 4p.m. and 8 p.m.

Oof, that’s a lot of traffic. The rule of thumb this Thanksgiving week is to avoid traveling in the late morning into the early evening.

Busiest Times At Airports During Thanksgiving Week:

Wednesday, Nov. 23 is expected to be the busiest day for Thanksgiving travel in 2022, per KAYAK, with Friday, Nov. 18 as the second busiest day. Data from Expedia shared with Elite Daily confirms Nov. 23 as the most popular 2022 Thanksgiving travel day, and Tuesday, Nov. 22 is right behind it.

For your return trip, airports will be packed on Sunday, Nov. 27 and Friday, Nov. 24, per Expedia.

Busiest Times At Train Stations During Thanksgiving Week:

According to intel from Amtrak shared with Elite Daily in a Nov. 18 email, the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after will be the most crowded. So, if you’re hopping on a train Nov. 23 or Nov. 27, remember to pack your patience.

The Best Time To Travel During Thanksgiving

Before you let a sea of brake lights ruin your appetite, check out the best times to get to your Thanksgiving destination.

Best Time To Drive During Thanksgiving Week:

AAA’s 2022 Thanksgiving data and Google’s road traffic predictions also highlight when the roads will be the least congested (all hours are local time):

• Monday, Nov. 21 : Beat all the traffic by leaving at 8 p.m. the Monday before the holiday.
• Wednesday, Nov. 23: The best time to travel on Thanksgiving Eve is before 8 a.m. or after 8 p.m.
• Thursday, Nov. 24 (Thanksgiving): Hit the road early, before 11 a.m., to make it to your holiday meal, and stay off the roads until after 6 p.m.
• Friday, Nov. 25 (Black Friday): Start your shopping before 11 a.m. or after 8 p.m. Very early risers will see clear roads at 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. as well.
• Saturday, Nov. 26: The best time to travel is before 2 p.m. or after 8 p.m. Set your alarm clock for open roads at 6 a.m.
• Sunday, Nov. 27: The best time to travel is before 11 a.m. or after 8 p.m. Again, the earlier the better, with 6 a.m. being the best time to leave, according to Google.

Overall, early birds and night owls will likely see the least amount of traffic.

Best Time To Fly During Thanksgiving Week:

To avoid crowds, steer clear of Nov. 23 and Nov. 27. That’s not to say you won’t encounter crowds on other days, but it will certainly be fewer.

Best Time To Take The Train During Thanksgiving Week:

While Amtrak didn’t provide specifics on the optimal time for train travel, you can expect slightly lighter traffic by avoiding the day before and after Thanksgiving. Amtrak’s travel tips suggest getting to the train station at least 30 minutes before your departure time — and always check your train status to make sure it’s on time.

Staying Safe While Traveling For Thanksgiving

Take a cue from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips “for a healthy and safe holiday travel season .” As of Oct. 6, 2022, the CDC recommends you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines and a seasonal flu vaccine. You can check on the CDC website what that means for you . As of Nov. 1, 2022, the CDC says, “You are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines if you have completed a COVID-19 vaccine primary series and received the most recent booster dose recommended for you by CDC.” The latest updated (bivalent) booster became available on Sept. 2 for people 12 or older, and can protect you from the original virus and Omicron variant BA.4 and BA.5.

The CDC emphasizes delaying travel if you test positive for COVID-19 and to isolate for at least five days. Testing is not required to fly domestically, but it’s recommended you test “as close to the time of departure as possible (no more than 3 days) before travel,” per the CDC. Similarly, masks are no longer required on public transportation, but it’s still recommended to wear masks “in indoor public transportation settings.”

If you’re traveling internationally , check local requirements as each country’s COVID protocols may differ from the U.S.

It can be overwhelming to think of all the travel prep and figure out when to leave as to not get caught in a traffic jam. There’s no exact science to make sure you won’t run into any holiday crowds — even with all the intel, there’s a chance your “not-busy” Thanksgiving travel time period will be a little slower than you want — but it still doesn’t hurt to plan for off-peak travel times. So, set your alarm and hope for the best. A slice of pumpkin pie is waiting for you on the other side.

This article was originally published on 11.17.20

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6 busiest highways in India

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01 /10 the backbone of india's transport system.

India’s vast network of highways is the backbone of its transportation system, connecting various parts of the country and facilitating the movement of goods and people. Among these, some highways stand out for their heavy traffic and strategic importance. This article highlights the busiest highways in India, each a lifeline in its own right. Image: Canva

02 /10 National Highway 48 (NH48)

Previously known as NH8, the NH48 is a major four-lane highway that expands to six lanes in certain sections. It runs between Delhi and Chennai, covering a distance of 1,428 kilometers. As one of the busiest highways in the Indian subcontinent, NH48 connects the national capital to several important cities, including Gurgaon, Jaipur, Ajmer, Udaipur, Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, Nadiad, Anand, and Kheda. It is part of the Golden Quadrilateral project and includes the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway, Jaipur-Kishangarh Expressway, and Ahmedabad Vadodara Expressway. Image: Canva

03 /10 National Highway 44 (NH44)

NH44 holds the title of India’s longest north-south highway, stretching 4,112 kilometers from Srinagar to Kanyakumari. This extensive highway not only connects the scenic beauty of Kashmir with the southern tip of the country but also serves as an important corridor for commerce and travel, making it one of the busiest highways in India. Image: Chennai Updates/X

04 /10 National Highway 8 (NH8)

The old NH8, now part of NH48, is renowned for being the busiest highway in the subcontinent. It connects Delhi to Mumbai and passes through nearly all the suburbs on the western line of Mumbai Suburban Railway. The highway is also known as the Western Express Highway before entering downtown Mumbai. It has been instrumental in the development of the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor Project. Image: Canva

05 /10 Delhi-Meerut Expressway

The Delhi-Meerut Expressway, also known as National Expressway 3, is a controlled-access expressway spanning 96 kilometers. It is not only one of India’s longest but also the widest, with a section widened to an astonishing 14 lanes. This expressway connects Delhi with Meerut via Dasna in Ghaziabad and showcases India’s commitment to modernizing its transport infrastructure. Image: Canva

06 /10 Mumbai-Pune Expressway

The Mumbai-Pune Expressway is India’s first operational six-lane expressway. Opened in 2002, it stretches approximately 94.5 kilometers and offers a seamless journey between Mumbai and Pune. The expressway follows stringent standards set by the Indian Roads Congress and the Bureau of Indian Standards, revolutionizing travel in Maharashtra. Image: Canva

07 /10 National Highway 2 (NH2)

National Highway 2, also known as the Grand Trunk Road, is one of the oldest and longest highways in South Asia. It runs from West Bengal to Delhi, covering a distance of approximately 1,465 kilometers. NH2 is a critical artery that supports the economic backbone of India, connecting several industrial and urban centers. Image: Canva

08 /10 The importance of highways

In India, highways are the pivotal arteries of the nation’s transport system, significantly contributing to its social and economic fabric. They facilitate the movement of over 65% of freight and 85% of passenger traffic, thereby playing a key role in the country’s economic growth. As the primary road grid, they connect major cities and towns, enhance national integration, and reduce travel time and transportation costs. The strategic development of highways reflects the government’s commitment to improving connectivity and accessibility, which is essential for the progress and unity of the diverse Indian landscape.

Image: Canva

09 /10 Did you know?

Did you know that India’s national highways, which make up only about 1.8% of the total road network, are responsible for carrying nearly 40% of the country’s road traffic? This staggering statistic underscores the vital importance of these highways in facilitating the efficient movement of goods and people across the nation.

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United Arab Emirates struggles to recover after heaviest recorded rainfall ever hits desert nation

The United Arab Emirates is struggled to recover from the heaviest recorded rainfall ever to hit the desert nation, as its main airport worked to restore normal operations even as floodwater still covered portions of major highways and roads. (AP video/Malak Harb)

A man walks along a road barrier among floodwater caused by heavy rain on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

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A man carries luggage through floodwater caused by heavy rain while waiting for transportation on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

An abandoned vehicle stands in floodwater caused by heavy rain with the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, seen on the background, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

People wait for transportation amidst floodwater caused by heavy rain on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

A man carries a child through floodwater caused by heavy rain while waiting for transportation on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

Vehicles drive through standing floodwater caused by heavy rain on an onramp to Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

Vehicles drive through standing floodwater caused by heavy rain on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

People wait for transportation on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

People walk through floodwater caused by heavy rain while waiting for transportation on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

Abandoned vehicles stand in floodwater caused by heavy rain along Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

An abandoned vehicle stands in floodwater caused by heavy rain in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

A flooded street by heavy rain is seen, with the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, on the background, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

A man walks through standing floodwater caused by heavy rain with the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, seen in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

A man walks through standing floodwater caused by heavy rain in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

A group of people work to recover an abandoned vehicle taken by floodwater caused by heavy rain in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

Vehicles drive through standing floodwater caused by heavy rain in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

A man walks through floodwater in the Mudon neighborhood in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded — a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

Civil defense officials bring water on a raft to a family in the Mudon neighborhood in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded — a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

Dubai civil defense officials drive through floodwater in the Mudon neighborhood in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded — a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — The United Arab Emirates tried to wring itself out Thursday after the heaviest recorded rainfall ever to hit the desert nation , with its main airport allowing more flights even as floodwater still covered portions of major highways and communities.

Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel , allowed global carriers on Thursday morning to again fly into Terminal 1 at the airfield. And long-haul carrier Emirates, crucial to East-West travel, began allowing local passengers to arrive at Terminal 3, their base of operations.

However, Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths said in an interview with The Associated Press that the airfield needed at least another 24 hours to resume operations close to its usual schedule. Meanwhile, one desert community in Dubai saw floodwaters continue to rise Thursday to as much as 1 meter (3 feet) as civil defense officials struggled to pump out the water.

“We were looking at the radar thinking, ‘Goodness, if this hits, then it’s going to be cataclysmic,’” Griffiths said of the storm. “And indeed it was.”

The airport ended up needing 22 tankers with vacuum pumps to get water off its grounds. Griffiths acknowledged that taxiways flooded during the rains, though the airport’s runways remained free of water to safely operate. Online videos of a FlyDubai flight landing with its reverse thrust spraying out water caught the world’s attention.

“It looks dramatic, but it actually isn’t that dramatic,” Griffiths said.

Emirates, whose operations had been struggling since the storm Tuesday, had stopped travelers flying out of the UAE from checking into their flights as they tried to move out connecting passengers. Pilots and flight crews also had a hard time reaching the airport given the water on roadways.

But on Thursday, Emirates lifted that order to allow customers into the airport. That saw some 2,000 people come into Terminal 3, again sparking long lines, Griffiths said.

Others who arrived at the airport described hourslong waits to get their baggage, with some just giving up to head home or to whatever hotel would have them.

Two men walk through floodwater in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Wednesday, April 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

The UAE, a hereditarily ruled, autocratic nation on the Arabian Peninsula, typically sees little rainfall in its arid desert climate. However, a massive storm forecasters had been warning about for days blew through the country’s seven sheikhdoms.

By the end of Tuesday, more than 142 millimeters (5.59 inches) of rainfall had soaked Dubai over 24 hours. An average year sees 94.7 millimeters (3.73 inches) of rain at Dubai International Airport. Other areas of the country saw even more precipitation.

Meanwhile, intense floods also have struck neighboring Oman in recent days. Authorities on Thursday raised the death toll from those storms to at least 21 killed.

The UAE’s drainage systems quickly became overwhelmed Tuesday, flooding out neighborhoods, business districts and even portions of the 12-lane Sheikh Zayed Road highway running through Dubai.

The state-run WAM news agency called the rain “a historic weather event” that surpassed “anything documented since the start of data collection in 1949.”

In a message to the nation late Wednesday, Emirati leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the ruler of Abu Dhabi, said authorities would “quickly work on studying the condition of infrastructure throughout the UAE and to limit the damage caused.”

On Thursday, people waded through oil-slicked floodwater to reach cars earlier abandoned, checking to see if their engines still ran. Tanker trucks with vacuums began reaching some areas outside of Dubai’s downtown core for the first time as well. Schools remain closed until next week.

Vehicles sit abandoned in floodwater covering a major road in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, April 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

Authorities have offered no overall damage or injury information from the floods, which killed at least one person.

However, at least one community saw the effects of the rainfall only get worse Thursday. Mudon, a development by the state-owned Dubai Properties, saw flooding in one neighborhood reach as much as 1 meter. Civil defense workers tried to pump the water out, but it was a struggle as people waded through the floodwater.

Residents of Mudon, who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity given the UAE’s strict laws governing speech, described putting together the equivalent of nearly $2,000 to get a tanker to the community Wednesday. They alleged the developers did nothing to help prior to that, even as they called and emailed. They also said a nearby sewage processing facility failed, bringing more water into their homes.

“A lot of people were in denial of how bad it was,” one homeowner said as civil defense officials waded through the water, bringing bottled water on a raft.

Dubai Holding, a state-owned company that has Dubai Properties as an arm, did not respond to questions. It’s part of a wider nexus that U.S. diplomats have called “Dubai Inc.” — all properties overseen by the city-state’s ruling family.

The flooding sparked speculation that the UAE’s aggressive campaign of cloud seeding — flying small planes through clouds dispersing chemicals aimed at getting rain to fall — may have contributed to the deluge. But experts said the storm systems that produced the rain were forecast well in advance and that cloud seeding alone would not have caused such flooding.

Scientists also say climate change is responsible for more intense and more frequent extreme storms, droughts, floods and wildfires around the world. Dubai hosted the United Nations’ COP28 climate talks just last year.

Abu Dhabi’s state-linked newspaper The National in an editorial Thursday described the heavy rains as a warning to countries in the wider Persian Gulf region to “climate-proof their futures.”

“The scale of this task is more daunting than it appears even at first glance, because such changes involve changing the urban environment of a region that for as long as it has been inhabited, has experienced little but heat and sand,” the newspaper said.

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April 24 2024

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Adopt a Highway volunteers remove 42,100 bags of trash from highways in 2023

More than 900 sections of Minnesota highway currently available for adoption statewide ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Transportation thanks the thousands of Adopt a Highway volunteers who help us keep Minnesota roadsides clean and free of litter each year and we invite more people to join this important program.

During 2023, Adopt a Highway volunteers removed more than 42,100 bags of trash from Minnesota highways and rest areas. MnDOT currently works with 2,021 volunteer groups statewide, collectively those groups volunteered almost 100,000 hours to pick up litter for the program. With at least 900 sections currently available for adoption across Minnesota, MnDOT welcomes more groups to volunteer.

Groups who want to volunteer should visit MnDOT’s Adopt a Highway website to connect with their local program coordinator. Volunteers are asked to commit to the Adopt a Highway program for at least two years and should pick up litter from both sides of their roadway section at least twice a year. The average length of an adopted roadway is about two miles. MnDOT posts signs along the adopted segments to recognize the name of volunteer groups.

There are also opportunities to pick-up litter at certain rest areas, or sign-up for a one-day Pick a Highway event.

MnDOT does provide safety information, trash bags and safety vests to every volunteer. Our maintenance crews will pick up the filled bags of trash that volunteers leave along the side of the road. Motorists are encouraged to slow down, move over and use caution whenever they see an Adopt a Highway volunteer group or maintenance crew picking up trash along the roadway.

The Adopt a Highway program has been part of MnDOT’s maintenance operations since 1990.