FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – The Independence Day holiday is expected to bring record numbers of travel across the country.
According to AAA, more than 71 million people will be on the move this week.
“The number of passengers is higher than last year. TSA expects this year’s Independence Day travel period to be 20 percent higher than last year,” said Vikkie Calderon, Fresno Yosemite International Airport representative.
Fresno Yosemite International Airport is preparing for a record-breaking week of travel ahead of Independence Day.
“Until July 7, this coming Sunday and Friday, July 5, are expected to be the busiest days in terms of travel during this period, so we expect more than 5,000 passengers to leave the Fresno airport,” Calderon said.
The airport has added flights to Atlanta, Dallas and Chicago.
“It is important to keep in mind, however, that the airport is very busy and travelers should also prepare in advance by arriving at the airport at least two hours or more before their domestic flight departs and three hours or more before their international flight departs,” Calderon said.
But airports won’t be the only places travelers will find holiday-related traffic this week.
“We’re going to see a lot more people traveling to the mountains or the lakes, just to have a good time. There’s going to be a lot more people there,” said Mike Salas of the California Highway Patrol.
The California Highway Patrol is also preparing to keep the roads safe.
“The highway patrol is going to have more patrol officers on the ground. Last year, in 2023, we arrested over 1,200 drunk drivers,” Salas said.
The CHP will be deployed in force to ensure people have a safe holiday.
“The California Highway Patrol has extended its maximum enforcement period, which will begin on July 3, Wednesday night at 6 p.m., and will extend through midnight Sunday the 7th,” Salas said.
Additionally, those planning to engage in outdoor activity are encouraged to stay hydrated and protect themselves from the sun.
