Special Traffic Operation for 15 August Holiday Weekend in Spain

The Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) has activated a Special Traffic Operation from 15:00 on Thursday 14 August until midnight on Sunday 17 August to manage the substantial influx of vehicles during the extended holiday weekend.Expected MobilityMore than 7 million road journeys—both long-distance and short trips—are anticipated over the four-day period as summer travel peaks and numerous local festivals take place.Safety RemindersDrivers are urged to remain cautious throughout all journeys—especially on conventional roads and familiar routes. Short trips should not lower one’s vigilance. Importantly, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains strictly prohibited, alongside adherence to seatbelt usage, speed limits, and traffic signage.Enforcement and SurveillanceThe DGT has mobilised considerable resources, including:Traffic officers from the Guardia CivilStaff from traffic management centresEmergency response teamsFixed and mobile speed camerasCamouflaged vehicles for seatbelt and mobile phone checksHelicopters and drones for aerial monitoringGuidance for Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs)A dynamic shoulder lane will be implemented on the AP-4 motorway between Dos Hermanas (km 13 + 500) and Jerez de la Frontera (km 78 + 000) during peak hours (Thursday afternoon and Friday morning). It is advised that HGVs over 7 500 kg avoid travelling in the direction of Cádiz on this stretch during these times.Traffic Flow ForecastsThursday afternoon (14 August): High congestion in urban exit routes and roads leading to coastal and second-home destinations, particularly between 16:00 and 23:00.Friday (15 August): Continued intense traffic during 08:00–15:00, combining outgoing traffic with short-distance trips to beaches and festival sites.Saturday (16 August): Sustained demand, especially in the morning, on routes towards coastal and residential areas.Sunday afternoon/evening (17 August): Significant return-traffic congestion expected between 17:00 and 24:00, when holidaymakers head back to major urban centres.Fire Risk ConsiderationsWith heightened wildfire risk due to heat, drivers are encouraged to stay informed and avoid routes that may be affected by fires or road closures, to ensure safety and continuity of travel.