Contrary to what Army officials call "public speculation," increased traffic congestion around Schofield Barracks and Wheeler Army Airfield in the past week was not the result of entry gates being closed or increased security inspections, officials said.

Rainy weather, traffic accidents and an increase in the number of cars on the sprawling Army posts in Central O'ahu were key factors in the congestion, the Army said.

"Over the past year, there have been fewer drivers on post due to the deployment of many of the 25th Infantry Division soldiers," Army officials said in a prepared statement.

"Now that these soldiers have returned, the number of drivers is getting back to normal," according to the statement.

Base officials said they have worked to ease traffic flow by setting up electronic displays that list gate operating hours; positioning traffic-control personnel at several gates; and holding discussions with police and the state Department of Transportation.

The congestion should ease as drivers get reacquainted with gate hours and traffic patterns, Army officials said.