Over 2.9 billion trips will be made around China during the 2016 Spring Festival travel rush, traffic police authorities estimated Thursday.

According to officials at a video conference held by the Traffic Management Bureau of the Ministry of Public Security (MPS), the number of road trips will reach 2.48 billion, a 2.4-percent increase from last year, with more individual driving trips expected to take place.

However, MPS officials warned people of higher risk for traffic accidents due to the abnormal weather conditions and larger amount of passengers this year.

Local traffic management institutions will keep a closer eye on potential traffic violations during the festival travel rush and take stronger action against violators, according to MPS officials.

The MPS has urged local institutions to fully prepare for potential extreme weather conditions, while getting ready to provide comprehensive services for travelers.

Spring Festival is China's most important holiday centering around family reunions. Hundreds of millions of people travel home during the holiday to spend time with their families. This year's festival falls on February 8.

(Xinhua News Agency January 14, 2016)