Travel rush continues after Fourth of July holiday weekend
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Diverging Reports Breakdown
Texas Death Toll Rises and Travelers Rush Home Today
The Texas flood death toll has risen to over 50 people. The immigration detention center in the Everglades known as “Alligator Alcatraz’ is now open following a quick 8-day construction. The Sean Diddy Combs federal sex trafficking trial finally came to a close this week after the jury convicted the hip hop mogul on two lesser charges, but not guilty on the more serious allegations. The maximum possible sentence for each of Diddy’s two guilty counts is 10 years in prison while the defense is seeking 21 months including Combs’ time already served. It is also expected to be a busy day at the airport as TSA expects a whopping 2.9 million travelers to pass through checkpoints on Sunday.
(New York, NY) – Officials and volunteers in Texas are continuing to brave the storms and floods in a search for any victims. Members of the Trump administration are defending the Big Beautiful Bill. We are also recapping the big trial of the week, here is the top 5 headlines to start your week:
Texas Flood Death Toll Rises
Texas officials held a news conference on Sunday morning updating the casualties to over 50 people. The catastrophic flooding began early Friday morning when torrential downpours caused the Guadalupe River to rise by 26 feet in under an hour. Along the river bank sits several summer camps. One of those camps, Camp Mystic, had the flooding sweep through cabins resulting in over two dozen children missing. Officials are not giving up their rescue efforts as they are holding out hope.
Big Beautiful Bill
Reactions continue pouring in this long holiday weekend over the Big Beautiful Bill Act. The massive tax and spending package cleared the House of Representatives 218-214 after undergoing some changes in the Senate. Economic advisors in the White House, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Director of the National Economic Council Kevin Hassett, appeared on the Sunday morning shows where they were defending the legislation against Democrats. Bessent also said that the White House continues working on different trade deals as tariffs are set to resume at the end of the month.
Return Travel Rush
As the extra long holiday weekend comes to a close, many people are leaving wherever they spent their Independence Day. According to Triple A, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. are the worst times to be on the road as around 61 million people will also be driving home Sunday. It is also expected to be a busy day at the airport. Travel experts say that while arrivals are usually spaced out, the returns typically fall on the same day. TSA expects a whopping 2.9 million travelers to pass through checkpoints on Sunday.
Alligator Alcatraz Opens
The immigration detention center in the Everglades known as “Alligator Alcatraz” is now open following a quick 8-day construction. The facility was toured by President Donald Trump this past Tuesday. Several Florida lawmakers also attempted to tour the facility but were denied entry. The facility is designed to be “self-contained” according to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. There is currently room for 3,000 migrants with the ability to add more capacity.
Jury Rules Diddy Semi-Guilty
The Sean Diddy Combs federal sex trafficking trial finally came to a close this week after the jury convicted the hip hop mogul on two lesser charges, but not guilty on the more serious allegations. The 12 jurors found Diddy guilty of prostitution-related offenses, but not on the sex trafficking and racketeering charges which carried a life sentence. The proposed sentencing date has been set for October 3rd. The maximum possible sentence for each of Combs’ two guilty counts is 10 years in prison. Prosecutors may seek more than 5 years while the defense is seeking 21 months including Combs’ time already served.
For more headlines, listen to today’s News Hour: Weekend Edition below
Going somewhere for July 4? So are almost 5 million other Texans
An estimated 5.7 million Texas residents will travel at least 50 miles from home between June 28 and July 6. This is a 2.2% increase over last year and a 9.9% jump compared to pre-pandemic 2019. In 2024, over 1,000 people were killed in DUI-alcohol related crashes across the state. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) launches its summer “Drive Sober. No Regrets” campaign, targeting the deadly consequences of drunk driving. AAA and traffic analytics firm INRIX have identified the best and worst times to drive each day. On July 4, the worst travel window is 12 PM – 7 PM. The best time to depart is before noon. July 2 may bring the most severe congestion, with delays expected from 12 PM – 9 PM. Texans are encouraged to travel early in the day (before 11 AM on most peak days) to avoid long delays.
DALLAS — Texans are preparing to hit the roads in record numbers over the holiday weekend.
According to AAA Texas, an estimated 5.7 million residents will travel at least 50 miles from home between June 28 and July 6, which is a 2.2% increase over last year and a 9.9% jump compared to pre-pandemic 2019. The vast majority, about 4.9 million, will travel by car, reflecting a 2.1% rise from 2024 and confirming the Lone Star State’s deep connection with road trips.
But behind the excitement of fireworks, barbecues, and family getaways lies a troubling backdrop: a surge in impaired driving that continues to devastate Texas families.
In 2024, over 1,000 people were killed in DUI-alcohol related crashes across the state. That’s three lives lost every single day, including 64 fatalities and 223 serious injuries during the July 4th holiday weekend alone. These sobering figures come as the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) launches its summer “Drive Sober. No Regrets.” campaign, targeting the deadly consequences of drunk driving.
Travel Trends vs. Years Past
This year’s numbers mark a significant rebound and continued growth in holiday travel:
Up 369,000 travelers from 2024 (a 2.2% increase)
Up 521,000 travelers from 2019 (a 9.9% increase)
Travel by air is also climbing modestly, with around 564,000 Texas flyers—a 1.2% bump over 2024. Meanwhile, alternative transportation modes (buses, trains, cruises) are seeing a 4.5% uptick, totaling approximately 244,000 travelers.
Nationally, AAA forecasts a record-breaking 61.6 million Americans traveling by road, making this the busiest Fourth of July travel season in U.S. history.
Avoiding Traffic: Best & Worst Times to Travel
With the roads expected to be jam-packed, especially on Wednesday, July 2 and Sunday, July 6, AAA and traffic analytics firm INRIX have identified the best and worst times to drive each day.
On July 4, the worst travel window is 12 PM – 7 PM. The best time to depart is before noon.
July 2 may bring the most severe congestion, with delays expected from 12 PM – 9 PM.
Texans are encouraged to travel early in the day (before 11 AM on most peak days) to avoid long delays.
The Hidden Toll of DUI: A Crisis on Texas Roads
While the travel surge paints a picture of post-pandemic recovery and patriotic celebration, TxDOT is reminding residents that July 4 also remains one of the deadliest holidays on Texas roads. In 2024:
Dallas reported 3,558 DUI-alcohol related crashes, leading to 154 deaths and 323 serious injuries.
Fort Worth saw 1,864 DUI-alcohol related crashes, resulting in 68 deaths and 175 serious injuries.
Statewide, the July 4 holiday weekend alone saw 5,144 DUI-alcohol crashes—a devastating reminder of the risks associated with impaired driving.
TxDOT’s “Drive Sober. No Regrets.” campaign, which started June 26 and goes through July 13, aligns with heightened law enforcement patrols targeting drunk drivers during the holiday stretch. The message is clear: plan ahead, designate a sober driver, or stay put until you’re safe to drive.
Beyond the tragic human cost, the financial consequences of a DUI in Texas can reach up to $17,000 in fines, fees, and legal expenses, not to mention possible jail time, a lost license, and a criminal record that can affect employment, insurance, and more.
Travel Smart, Travel Safe
Whether you’re flying out of DFW, hitting the Gulf Coast, or heading to West Texas, AAA and TxDOT offer a few tips for a safer, smoother trip:
Travel early to avoid heavy traffic
Prepare your vehicle: Check tires, battery, oil, and fluids before any long road trip.
Rest up before driving: At least 7 hours of sleep is recommended for alertness.
Be aware of roadside workers: Slow down and move over for emergency or disabled vehicles.
Never drive impaired: Choose a sober driver or rideshare service before you start drinking.
Tampa International Airport handles final day of Fourth of July holiday travel
TSA estimates screening nearly 2.9 million passengers nationwide Sunday, making this one of the busiest travel days of the year. Despite the high volume, most travelers at TPA reported positive experiences. “Enjoyed Tampa, enjoyed the beach,” Larry Miles, a passenger preparing for departure, said. “Yeah, a little bit of weather, but they usually stay on top of it. I wasn’t too worried,” Emily Territo said, referring to Florida’s unpredictable weather patterns. “We’re in the clear right now,” Rylie Carroll confirmed.
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TAMPA, Fla. — As the Fourth of July weekend comes to a close, Tampa International Airport is still moving at full throttle, with passengers navigating the final day of holiday travel with a little luck, a lot of luggage and just enough patience to get home.
The red, white and boom may be over, but the travel rush is still soaring. At Tampa International Airport, the holiday weekend brought a wave of visitors, and on the final day, the terminals are still buzzing with activity.
“It’s been great, no delays, real smooth. Workers are really nice,” Emily Territo, a passenger making her way through the airport to Buffalo said.
For some travelers, the weekend was a welcome surprise after a summer filled with travel disruptions.
“I was worried… I’ve had a lot of bad travel experiences this summer… but it’s been good so far,” Rylie Carroll, another passenger said.
Carroll’s concerns weren’t unfounded, given her recent travel experiences.
“I was flying out of Long Island,” she said. “My flight was delayed like 8 hours. TSA closed and I had to book a flight for the next day.”
But at Tampa International Airport, patience wasn’t taking a nosedive.
“We had delays getting here… but since we’ve been here it’s been pretty good. Enjoyed Tampa, enjoyed the beach,” Larry Miles, a passenger preparing for departure, said.
TSA estimates screening nearly 2.9 million passengers nationwide Sunday, making this one of the busiest travel days of the year. Despite the high volume, most travelers at TPA reported positive experiences.
“Yeah, a little bit of weather, but they usually stay on top of it. I wasn’t too worried,” Territo said, referring to Florida’s unpredictable weather patterns.
While Florida’s forecast always comes with a chance of storms, most flights stayed on course Sunday.
“Yeah, I’ve been checking all morning to see what’s going to happen, but we’re good. We’re in the clear right now,” Carroll confirmed.
As the holiday weekend comes in for a landing, passengers are hoping their flights do the same.
“TSA checks went fine… just delays in the flights and flight changes and that kind of stuff,” Miles noted, reflecting the typical travel challenges that come with peak holiday periods.
Fourth of July travel could break records. See best & worst times to drive in CA
California Fourth of July travel could break records. See best & worst times to drive in CA. AAA forecasts 72.2 million U.S. travelers for July 4, setting new holiday record. Road travel expected to peak with 61.6 million drivers; flyers to hit 5.84 million. Best drives occur before noon; peak traffic hits July 2 and 6 during afternoon hours.. Seebest & worst time to drive to California. Read our AI Policy. Click here to read the AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom. The holiday rush begins next Saturday, June 28. Most travelers will take road trips, but airports will be packed as well! The busiest days for travel will be on Wednesday, July 2, and Sunday, July 6, with the worst expected in the afternoon hours of July 3 and 4. The average cost of regular gasoline in California is $4.57 per gallon, more than a dollar higher than the national average of $3.17 per gallon. The state’s new gas tax is expected to increase prices even more this summer.
Key Takeaways Key Takeaways AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom. Read our AI Policy. AAA forecasts 72.2 million U.S. travelers for July 4, setting new holiday record.
Road travel expected to peak with 61.6 million drivers; flyers to hit 5.84 million.
Best drives occur before noon; peak traffic hits July 2 and 6 during afternoon hours.
Burgers will sizzle on the grill, fireworks will soar through the air and travelers will hit the road for the Fourth of July.
Independence Day 2025 could set new records for road trips and airport crowds across the United States, including California, according to a recent AAA news release.
If you’re planning to travel during the Fourth of July holiday weekend, here are the best — and worst — times to drive:
Semi Trucks travel along Highway 99 through Stanislaus County Sunday, Feb 18th, 2018. Marty Bicek Modesto Bee file
How many people are expected to travel for Independence Day?
Record numbers of people will hit the road and soar through the skies across the United States during the Fourth of July holiday weekend, according to AAA.
“AAA projects 72.2 million people will travel at least 50 miles or more from home over the Independence Day holiday period from Saturday, June 28 to Sunday, July 6,” AAA said in a June news release.
Record 72.2 million Americans expected to travel domestically around the Fourth of July. The holiday rush begins next Saturday, June 28. Most travelers will take road trips, but airports will be packed as well! https://t.co/2ObeP7obul pic.twitter.com/FTfW9SZICe — AAA (@AAAnews) June 20, 2025
That’s 1.7 million more travelers than in 2024, the automobile association said and 7 million more than pre-coronavirus pandemic travel levels in 2019.
Air travel is expected to hit a new high over the Fourth of July weekend with AAA forecasting 5.84 million flying — which is a 1.4% increase from 2024.
Meanwhile, a record 61.6 million people are expected to drive to their holiday destinations, which is about 1.3 million more drivers than the previous year.
Why are more people traveling this Fourth of July?
Summer is a peak travel season, AAA said, and the Fourth of July is one of the most popular times for a getaway.
“Following Memorial Day’s record forecast, AAA is seeing strong demand for road trips and air travel over Independence Day week,” Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA travel, said in the release.
Since Independence Day lands on a Friday, Barber said, travelers are “making it a long weekend or taking the entire week to make memories with family and friends.”
Gas prices have increased slightly due to recent tensions in the Middle East, AAA said, but summer fuel costs are still at their lowest levels since 2021. buzbuzzer Getty Images
What are California gas prices?
Gas prices have increased slightly due to recent tensions in the Middle East, AAA said, but summer fuel costs are still at their lowest levels since 2021.
“This year, the price of crude oil has kept gas prices on the lower side,” the automobile association said. “The Israel Iran conflict has driven up the price of oil in recent days but not dramatically.”
California drivers typically pay the highest fuel prices in the United States, with the average cost of regular gasoline reaching $4.57 per gallon, as of Wednesday, July 2.
Vehicles backup on westbound Highway 50 and surrounding streets in east Sacramento. Randy Pench Sacramento Bee file
That is more than a dollar higher than the national average of $3.17.
California’s new gas tax is expected to increase prices even more — adding 59.6 cents to 61.2 cents per gallon.
The new tax went into effect Tuesday, July 1.
Changes under the state’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard also just kicked in, which could push prices up a bit more this summer. Experts warn that could add as much as 65 cents per gallon to the pump price in the coming months.
Changes under the state’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard also just kicked in, which could push prices up a bit more this summer. Jason Pierce jpierce@sacbee.com
What are best — and worst — times to drive for July 4?
According to AAA data, the busiest Fourth of July travel days will be on Wednesday, July 2, and Sunday, July 6, with the worst traffic congestion expected in the afternoon.
“Drivers should hit the road in the morning to avoid the worst traffic, but keep in mind construction, crashes, or severe weather could impact travel times,” AAA said.
Here are the best times to travel by car:
Thursday, July 3 — Before noon
Friday, July 4 — Before noon
Saturday, July 5 — Before 11 a.m.
Sunday, July 6 — Before 11 a.m.
Here are the worst times to travel by car:
Wednesday, July 2 — From noon to 9 p.m.
Thursday, July 3 — From 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Friday, July 4 — From noon to 7 p.m.
Saturday, July 5 — From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday, July 6 — From noon to 6 p.m.
Follow these tips to plan your road trip
AAA recommends “getting routine vehicle maintenance ahead of your trip and packing an emergency kit.”
The following items should be included in an emergency kit:
Cell phone and charger
First-aid kit
Blanket
Drinking water and snacks
Flashlight with extra batteries
Rags, paper towels or pre-moistened wipes
Basic set of tools, including duct tape, and emergency warning devices, including road flares
Ice scraper or snow brush
Jumper cables or jump pack
Traction aid such as sand or salt
Tarp, raincoat and gloves
Shovel
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This story was originally published July 2, 2025 at 12:41 PM.