Expectant rush-hour gridlocks during the Ascension Day weekend, forewarned by ADAC. - Anticipated Road Congestion Over Ascension Weekend as Per ADAC
Ascension Day Weekend to Bring Heavily Congested Traffic in North Rhine-Westphalia
North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) is gearing up for a traffic-heavy weekend as the Ascension Day falls on May 29, 2025. The long weekend, spanning from Wednesday to Sunday, is anticipated to be marked by numerous traffic jams, particularly on roads leading to leisure hubs.
The prevalence of vacationers and motorists alike is anticipated due to increased travel during the weekend, combined with the public holiday. Many families may take the opportunity to embark on short vacations, owing to a bridge day in numerous federal states, while students in NRW may capitalize on a moveable holiday.
Approximately 700 construction sites across NRW could result in extended delays, with ADAC North Rhine warning of a high risk of traffic congestion in areas with reduced lanes, especially around Cologne and in the Ruhr region.
The peak traffic hours are predicted to be between 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM on Wednesday, due to the simultaneous movement of commuters and vacationers. Motorists who commence their journeys in the evening or on Thursday are likely to reach their destinations faster and more stress-free.
The return journey on Sunday afternoon is expected to cause congested roads once more, though ADAC North Rhine's Roman Suthold anticipates fewer traffic jams than at the beginning of the long weekend, as there are no commuters on the road at that time.
It's advised that drivers avoid taking detours via country roads when engaged in motorway traffic jams, as the detour routes can also become congested. According to ADAC, it only makes sense to exit the motorway in case of traffic jams longer than ten kilometers or a complete closure.
Planning ahead, avoiding peak hours, considering alternative routes, leaving early or late, and taking breaks during long journeys can all help motorists minimize their exposure to traffic congestion during the Ascension weekend in North Rhine-Westphalia.
To reduce the impact of heavy traffic during Ascension Day Weekend in North Rhine-Westphalia, consider adjusting your travel plans to avoid peak hours (1:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Wednesday) and plan alternative routes. This long weekend, characterized by increased travel and a public holiday, could influence lifestyle choices, such as opting for staycations in leisure hubs, to accommodate the anticipated congestion on roads, especially around Cologne and the Ruhr region.
