Heavy NLEX Traffic Expected for Undas: INC Event & Typhoon Updates

Travellers heading north for the All Souls’ Day holiday, or “Undas,” should brace for especially heavy traffic on the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX). This year’s long weekend traffic surge is compounded by an upcoming Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) event near the Philippine Arena in Bocaue and the lingering effects of Super Typhoon Leon. Here’s what you need to know for a smoother journey.

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What to expect with the Heavy NLEX Traffic for Undas

The INC’s humanitarian event, Lingap sa Mamamayan, is scheduled for 31 Oct 2024 from 5 am to 9 pm at the Philippine Sports Stadium, close to the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan. Thousands are expected to attend, which will likely cause delays near the venue. Motorists are encouraged to consider alternate routes to avoid the most congested areas surrounding the event site.

Adding to the congestion, Super Typhoon Leon is expected to exit the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) on the night of 31 Oct or early 1 Nov. However, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warns that travellers heading to Northern Luzon could still face challenging weather conditions.

To help travellers plan, NLEX Corporation has provided estimated peak times based on anticipated traffic flows:

• October 31: 6 am to 10 pm northbound

• November 1: 5 am to 2 pm northbound

• November 2: 3 pm to 10 pm southbound

• November 3 - 4: 2 pm on November 3 to 8 am on November 4 southbound

If possible, try to avoid travelling during these times to minimise delays and road frustration.

NLEX Corporation is offering real-time traffic condition updates via livestreams on its Facebook page, covering critical points along the route, including Balintawak Toll Plaza, Mapulang Lupa in Valenzuela, Mindanao Toll Plaza, Libtong in Meycauayan, Bocaue Toll Plaza, and San Fernando Interchange. This service will help drivers assess current conditions and make real-time travel decisions.

In anticipation of potential vehicle breakdowns, NLEX Corporation will offer free towing for Class 1 vehicles (motorcycles and cars) to the nearest exit. This service will be available from 31 Oct at 6 am. until 4 Nov at 6 am, ensuring that travellers can quickly receive assistance and keep traffic flowing as smoothly as possible.

To streamline your trip, ensure that your Easytrip RFID is reloaded and functioning to avoid the added hassle of paying toll fees manually. NLEX officials recommend keeping additional travel supplies and monitoring weather updates for any last-minute changes, particularly for travellers heading to regions impacted by Typhoon Leon.

Also read: NLEX Connector Toll Hike: What’s Changing for Motorists

With these strategies, holiday travellers can prepare for what may be one of the busiest and most challenging weekends on NLEX, staying safe and, ideally, arriving at their destinations without too much delay.

All image credit goes to NLEX | Official Website