Traffic Alert: Expect heavy traffic in PNC Arena due to concerts, Canes home, ongoing construction

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- If you drive by PNC Arena in Raleigh it could take you a little longer to get to your destination.

Two concerts are taking place and the Carolina Hurricanes are playing Game 5 against the New Jersey Devils.

The arena said traffic delays are expected due to capacity crowds and construction on nearby roads.

"We're going to have over 50,000 people visit the PNC Arena over the next three days. So, I think people need to prepare for it. I know the concerts are a little bit more concerned because they're not as used to coming to the arena for Hurricanes games, you know the 18,000 plus are used to coming on a regular basis. So, they know their little tricks of getting in and out," PNC Arena president Don Waddell said.

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Lizzo performed Wednesday night. The Hurricanes play Thursday at 7 p.m. and Stevie Nicks will be performing on Friday at 7 p.m.

Patti Johnson is a Lizzo fan who traveled two hours for the show. They left early to avoid traffic and get closer seats. Johnson is glad more big-name acts are coming to Raleigh.

"I think it's really awesome to have, like, a big name come to such a, like, a quiet community. I know Raleigh is kind of bigger than normal, but at the same time, it does bring attention to our state"

Emme Woodman is a 10-year-old from Wilmington who traveled to see Lizzo Wednesday night. It's Emme's first-ever concert.

"The reason why I like her so much is because I've had a lot of trouble at school lately with people making fun of me for my weight. And I just love Lizzo so much because she embraces that."

People going to PNC Arena are encouraged to plan ahead, carpool if possible and arrive early. Arena parking lots will open three hours before each event.

Doors will open one to one and a half hours before each event.