Heavy traffic anticipated throughout the Bay Area this holiday weekend.

TAMPA, Fla. — Memorial Day Weekend is here, bringing with it an expected surge in travel and activity in the Bay area.

Roads will be bustling, and Tampa International Airport is bracing for significant crowds. According to AAA, this weekend could mark the busiest Memorial Day Weekend on record for travel.

Tampa airport officials anticipate that this holiday weekend will kick off what could be a record-breaking volume of traffic at the airport.

On the road, AAA spokesperson Andre El Khouri reports that Florida is set to see 2.6 million travelers, with nearly 2.3 million opting to travel by car. Nationwide, an estimated 45 million people are expected to travel, with approximately 40 million of those choosing to drive.

Drivers in the Bay area should prepare for congestion on I-4, I-275, and I-75 throughout the weekend. El Khouri advises motorists to take certain precautions:

• Leave early to avoid congestion.
• Add extra travel time.
• Check your tires and battery, especially if you have an electric vehicle.
• Respect speed limits on the highway.

Beaches are also expected to be packed during this holiday weekend, attracting many visitors.

In addition, AAA is activating its Tow To Go program for Memorial Day weekend to enhance road safety by offering a safe ride home for those who may be impaired. This service is available from Friday to Monday and provides a free ride to a safe location within 5 miles.

Lastly, travelers should consider filling up their gas tanks, as Florida’s average gas price has dipped to $3.12 this year, significantly lower than last year’s average of $3.55.

Key Information

• Weekend Travel Estimate: 45 million people traveling nationwide, with 2.6 million in Florida.
• Car Travelers: About 40 million across the U.S. expected to drive; nearly 2.3 million in Florida.
• Congested Roads: Expect heavy traffic on I-4, I-275, and I-75 in the Bay area.
• AAA Tow To Go Program: Offers free rides to impaired drivers over Memorial Day weekend.
• Gas Prices: Florida’s average gas price is $3.12, down from $3.55 last year.