Chicago authorities warned drivers and residents earlier this week that they would close streets if necessary during Mexican Independence Day celebrations. Some streets were already closed on Saturday evening.

According to the Office of Emergency Management and Communications, there were “temporary closures” due to traffic congestion in downtown Chicago.

Residents are asked to allow for longer travel times. However, public transport is not affected by the closures.

According to Total Traffic, the Dan Ryan and Kennedy freeways exits to the Byrne Interchange heading east are also closed to limit traffic into the city centre.

Stop-and-go traffic also occurs on the Kennedy and Dan Ryan expressways.

Mexican Independence Day celebrations, which include car convoys, are expected to continue throughout the evenings this weekend, but city officials are warning of closures and even restricted access to the downtown business district.

Additionally, Chicago’s Grant Park hosts the El Grito Festival with music, food, and numerous festivities.

According to authorities, Jackson is closed between Columbus and DuSable Lake Shore Drive.