Since the start of the operation, which began on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at 3:00 PM, widespread traffic jams have been reported on the main highways of the Community of Madrid. The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) indicated that the most affected roads are the A-5 and the A-42.
One of the most problematic spots was on the A-5, near Arroyomolinos, where an accident at kilometer 25 forced the closure of the left lane, causing several kilometers of tailbacks in the outbound direction. Difficulties were also detected on the A-42, especially in Torrejón de la Calzada towards Toledo, where a previous incident had already slowed traffic.
“"Outbound difficulties from Madrid due to an accident that cuts the left lane in Arroyomolinos. Incident at PK 25. Generates more than 3 km of traffic jams."
Other major road axes also experienced congestion. Traffic jams were recorded on the A-1, near the Jarama Circuit; on the A-2, in Torrejón de Ardoz; on the A-3, in Rivas Vaciamadrid; and on the A-4, in both Butarque and Pinto. The A-6 showed dense traffic in the El Plantío area.
The DGT estimates that nearly 1.18 million long-distance trips will occur in the Community of Madrid during this holiday weekend. Nationwide, the figure amounts to 6.04 million, slightly lower than in previous years because May 2, a usual holiday in Madrid, falls on a Saturday, thus reducing the duration of the holiday period.
Forecasts indicated that Thursday afternoon would be particularly complicated, with a high volume of vehicles leaving major urban centers. The most unfavorable travel time was between 3:00 PM and 11:00 PM. Traffic intensity on outbound routes is expected to continue on Friday morning, while Saturday should see typical weekend travel without major incidents. The first returns will intensify on Sunday, and on May 3, problems are anticipated on inbound corridors to cities.
To facilitate circulation, special regulatory measures will be applied in several autonomous communities, including Andalusia, Valencian Community, Castilla-La Mancha, Castilla y León, Madrid, and Murcia. The DGT emphasized the importance of responsible driving, vehicle inspection, route planning, and the mandatory use of the V16 beacon in case of an incident.
