Chaos at the weekend: Elbe tunnel closed – Norderel Bridge at risk!

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Current traffic information for the Elbe Tunnel and Norderel Bridge. Restrictions and diversions on November 6th, 2025 in Hamburg.

Aktuelle Verkehrsinformationen zum Elbtunnel und Norderelbbrücke. Einschränkungen und Umleitungen am 6.11.2025 in Hamburg.
Current traffic information for the Elbe Tunnel and Norderel Bridge. Restrictions and diversions on November 6th, 2025 in Hamburg.

Chaos at the weekend: Elbe tunnel closed – Norderel Bridge at risk!

The weekend is just around the corner, and while many Cologne residents want to enjoy their free time, the traffic conditions in Hamburg could be a real mess. How stern.de reported that the Elbe Tunnel will be completely closed this weekend. This means that drivers have to take the A1 and the Norderel Bridge to get into the city. But that could lead to real traffic chaos.

Gray clouds on the traffic horizon: The ADAC has already initiated an investigation into possible traffic problems. A permanent closure of the Norderel Bridge, which is used by around 125,000 vehicles every day, could have a significant impact on traffic. Traffic jams and detours could cause economic damage of up to 334 million euros annually, according to the results of the ADAC analysis, which is based on experiences with other bridges. In the worst case, traffic could divert onto the A7 and into the Hamburg city area, which would worsen the situation.

Significant traffic congestion

The Norderel Bridge has currently been restricted since March 2023 due to its unsatisfactory condition (grade 3.5). The most recent audit from August and September is still pending, but clear measures are necessary. Especially since a more stable solution is in sight until at least 2029 - the first phase of a new building should then be completed. The ADAC and the city of Hamburg agree that the bridge should be renovated or replaced as quickly as possible in order to prevent long-term economic damage.

Another aspect that will further exacerbate the traffic problems is the complete closure of the A7 between Hamburg-Heimfeld and Hamburg-Stellingen from Friday evening to Monday morning. This diversion represents a significant additional burden for many commuters and travelers. Diversions via the A1 to Bargteheide and the B205 highway to the A7 junction Neumünster-Süd are the alternatives available.

Major events and their consequences

In addition, traffic volumes will be further fueled by two major events on Saturday, a football match between Hamburger SV and Borussia Dortmund and a demonstration that mobilizes up to 20,000 participants. These events promise to further complicate the situation as they place additional strain on the already tense traffic situation.

It is important for drivers in and around Hamburg to be particularly careful at the weekend. Traffic jams and delays may require not only patience but also a detailed plan of travel route. The forecasts already indicate that traffic in the Hanseatic city will be put to a tough test.