Driving conditions look largely favorable as we head into Christmas Eve’s eve.
On this bustling Tuesday, holiday travelers are expected to hit the roads in droves, marking the peak of outbound holiday traffic, according to Fintraffic. Marko Kolattu, a traffic management operator, notes that congestion is likely to peak shortly after noon, with heavy traffic predicted well into the evening, varying by region.
For those navigating central areas, be prepared for the worst bottlenecks between 2 and 3 PM, as the afternoon unfolds. Especially busy stretches will include Highway 4 Northbound from Lahti and Jyväskylä, alongside significant traffic anticipated on Highway 5 extending up to Mikkeli.
### Conditions Mostly Good
Fortunately, motorists are setting out under relatively good driving conditions. The roads are dry, and temperatures across the nation are hovering below freezing. The Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI) reports that Tuesday will remain mostly dry, with occasional sunbreaks. In many regions, temperatures will range from -4 to -12 degrees Celsius.
However, as milder air reaches Lapland later in the day, temperatures there may rise toward freezing, potentially leading to slippery conditions in certain areas.
Looking ahead, Fintraffic anticipates that return traffic will be spread over several days, with the busiest period expected on Boxing Day, December 26. For those hitting the road this holiday season, staying informed and patient will be key. Safe travels!