Drivers in and around Amsterdam are being urged to stay off the roads this weekend due to a series of major roadworks coinciding with the start of the summer holidays in the northern region.

The national transport department has warned of “extreme disruption” on key routes around the capital, with multiple construction projects scheduled to begin on Friday evening. The closures include new work on the A4 and the full shutdown of the second Coentunnel, adding to ongoing maintenance on the A10 ring road.

The road authority is advising people to work from home or consider alternative modes of transport, as traffic volumes are expected to surge with the first holiday departures.

The A4 will be reduced to fewer, narrower lanes between junction De Hoek and junction Burgerveen until August 20. The project includes resurfacing and other maintenance work.

At the same time, the second Coentunnel will be closed for upgrades to its fire safety, lighting and camera systems. The tunnel will remain shut in the direction of Amsterdam-Noord and Zaanstad until September 15.

These projects coincide with the continued closure of the A10 Zuid and Oost ring road which is scheduled to reopen on July 12.

The ANWB also expects long delays from Friday afternoon as holiday traffic combines with construction-related congestion. Weekend events such as Bospop in Weert and North Sea Jazz in Rotterdam may also lead to local delays.