Traffic chaos in Špindlerův Mlýn as parking lots fill up amid ski resort crowds
by CIJ News iDesk III 
2024-12-30 
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The high demand for Špindlerův Mlýn, the largest ski resort in the Giant Mountains, has led to significant traffic congestion today, with parking facilities completely full. Drivers are stuck in long queues as police officers work to manage the situation and direct traffic. Regional police spokeswoman Šárka Pižlová urged visitors to consider alternative destinations to avoid the overcrowded area. “People can’t get there anymore; cars are standing in convoys,” she explained. Špindlerův Mlýn offers about 16 kilometres of ski slopes currently in operation, with the potential for 30 kilometres across five areas under full capacity. Snow levels on the slopes range from 20 to 80 centimetres, while the ridges of the Giant Mountains have snow depths of 50 to 80 centimetres. However, temperatures above freezing during the day have increased the risk of wet snow avalanches, particularly on southern and sunny slopes. The region is under the first avalanche danger level on a five-point scale. Mountain rescuers noted that while avalanches are unlikely without a significant additional load, there is a possibility of small or medium avalanches that usually stop on the slope. In recent days, other mountain destinations have also faced overcrowding. The Šerlich area in the Orlické Mountains experienced an influx of visitors, with the parking lot at the mountain saddle reaching capacity on Wednesday and Saturday. Police recommend using public buses to access such areas when parking is unavailable. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and advise visitors to plan their trips carefully to avoid adding to the congestion. Source: CTK