Kilometer-Long Queues Snarl Croatian Highways Amidst Summer Travel Chaos

Croatian highways were gridlocked on Saturday morning as a surge in traffic, primarily towards coastal destinations, caused extensive delays. The Croatian Auto Club (HAK) reported heavy congestion on most roads leading to the sea, with particular issues on the A1 Zagreb-Split-Dubrovnik and A2 Zagreb-Macelj motorways.

On the A1, traffic was severely backed up between the Lučko toll booths and the Bosiljevo 2 junction in the direction of the coast. HAK noted intermittent standstills and warned drivers to anticipate longer travel times. A traffic accident between the Rovanjska and Jasenice exits, heading towards Zagreb, further slowed movement, with traffic limited to two lanes and a speed restriction of 80 kilometers per hour.

The A2 highway saw a five-kilometer queue near the Trakošćan toll booths heading towards Zagreb. Additionally, the A3 Bregana-Lipovac route experienced a four-kilometer backup towards the Lučko toll booths from Buzin, a situation HAK indicated was worsening.

Adding to the travel challenges, variable weather conditions are forecast. While the coast is expected to be mostly sunny, the northern Adriatic region might see light rain in the morning. Inland areas could experience showers and thunderstorms. Strong winds, including gusts reaching storm force in the Velebit foothills, are predicted along the Adriatic coast, potentially impacting traffic further. Drivers are urged to adjust their speed and driving style to the road conditions.