Expect heavier traffic starting today as the Memorial Day holiday weekend gets underway across Southern California. The Auto Club of Southern California predicts that nearly three-point-six million residents will travel for the long holiday break. That marks a one-percent increase over last year in the number of people expected to travel at least 50 miles from home. Despite gas prices climbing above six dollars a gallon in some areas, travel demand remains strong. The Auto Club says holiday road travel is expected to jump eight percent compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019, showing that higher fuel costs are not stopping many families from hitting the road. Airports, freeways, and popular vacation destinations are all expected to be especially busy through Monday. Drivers are encouraged to leave early, allow extra travel time, and prepare for delays as millions of Southern Californians make their way out of town to celebrate the holiday weekend with family and friends.
