May 30, 2025, 1:38 pm | Read time: 2 minutes

At the start of one of the busiest holiday weekends, chaos erupted on German highways. The reason: Google Maps mistakenly marked numerous sections as closed.

False Closures in Google Maps Paralyze Traffic

The problem was apparently so large that even foreign media like “The Guardian” reported on it. According to Google Maps’ route display, large parts of the German highway network seemed impassable on Thursday. In many regions of Germany, the maps were covered with red closure marks, even though they were actually open. The phenomenon also occurred in parts of Belgium and the Netherlands.

Many drivers relied on these incorrect indications and diverted to side roads, which made the traffic chaos real. The small roads were not equipped to handle the sudden influx, leading to significant delays. Police and traffic authorities were overwhelmed with inquiries.

Those who switched to other services like Apple Maps, Waze, or traffic news on the radio received a largely realistic picture—traffic flowed without significant issues in many places.

Frustration Among Drivers and Speculation on Social Media

On social networks, users reacted with confusion and humor to the error in Google Maps. “They can’t have closed ALL the highways,” wrote one user. Another compared the digital map image to an “acne attack” on the highway network. There was even speculation about possible terrorist attacks or hacking incidents.

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The map data used for route planning is based, according to Google, on three sources: third-party providers, official entities like traffic authorities, and user feedback. These are constantly updated—though the speed varies.

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Cause of Google Maps Error Still Unknown

Why the error occurred in Google Maps on Ascension Day is still unknown. A Google spokesperson stated that the issue is being reviewed following initial user reports, and incorrect closure marks are being gradually removed.

Drivers are advised to use multiple information sources in the future before planning their route.