Easter travel chaos as accidents and congestion hit Norwegian roads

Norwegian roads faced heavy congestion and multiple accidents on Wednesday as Easter holiday travel began, according to reports from police and traffic authorities.

The traffic monitoring service of the Norwegian Public Roads Administration confirmed delays on key routes, including the E6 highway north of Oslo, where long queues formed. “There have been several minor incidents causing extra challenges,” traffic operator Tomas Eriksen told Dagbladet.

In Innlandet county, police reported a serious collision on the E6 at Mjøsa Bridge in Gjøvik, where one vehicle left the bridge and another was left undriveable. No severe injuries were reported, but the incident caused significant disruption. “Traffic flow is heavily affected,” said operations manager Frode Øvreås, advising drivers to seek alternative routes.

A separate accident on the E39 in Lund, near Moi, saw a car catch fire, blocking traffic in both directions. Police later confirmed the vehicles had been cleared, with lanes reopening shortly afterward.

Oslo’s road network also experienced delays after the Oslofjord Tunnel closed temporarily due to stalled vehicles, while the E16 toward Hønefoss saw additional congestion.

Eriksen noted that Wednesday is historically one of the busiest Easter travel days, with peak traffic between 11 AM and 2 PM. He urged drivers to exercise patience, avoid risky overtaking, and account for extra travel time. “Make the journey part of the holiday,” he advised, recommending drivers refuel—both for vehicles and electric charging—before departure.

Police in the Sør-Vest region also reported fire-related traffic disruptions, though no injuries occurred.