August 12 Solar Eclipse: Tips to Avoid Traffic Jams

The Catalan Traffic Service (Servei Català de Trànsit - SCT) expects exceptionally high traffic levels on 12 Augustdue to the total solar eclipse, which will make Salou one of the main viewing locations in Catalonia. Because of the large number of visitors expected, people already staying in Salou are encouraged to walk to the viewing areas whenever possible, avoiding the use of private vehicles.

To ensure safe mobility throughout the day, the SCT will deploy a special traffic operation together with the Mossos d'Esquadra and the local police. The measures will include traffic control at access points to the main viewing areas, additional police patrols to manage vehicle flows and prevent congestion, and the monitoring of illegal parking along roadsides.

The operation will also include enhanced traffic information through variable message signs, temporary road signageto guide drivers and an increased number of tow trucks to deal quickly with any incidents affecting traffic.

Visitors travelling to Salou or other eclipse viewing locations are advised to:

• Plan their journey in advance.
• Check traffic conditions before travelling.
• Follow the instructions of police officers and traffic management staff.
• Avoid relying solely on GPS navigation, as temporary diversions and traffic restrictions may be in place.
• Always follow official information and roadside signage.
• Use designated parking areas.
• Do not park on access roads, exits or road shoulders where emergency vehicles may need to pass.
• If you are already in Salou, walk to the viewing areas whenever possible to help reduce traffic congestion.

During the day, special restrictions for heavy goods vehicles will also be in place on the AP-7 motorway and the N-340 road to help reduce congestion on the main routes leading to eclipse viewing areas.

In view of the expected increase in visitors, the use of the park-and-ride car parks located at various points across Salou is also recommended to improve mobility and ease traffic congestion in the town centre.