St. Louis, MO – As Thanksgiving travel draws near, Missouri transportation officials are urging motorists to begin winter driving preparations to ensure safe holiday travel. From St. Louis to Kansas City and St. Joseph, the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) is reminding drivers that early November is the ideal time to prepare vehicles for snow, ice, and cold temperatures.
The Importance of Early Vehicle Preparation
According to MoDOT, drivers should start with a basic winter vehicle checkup before heading out on holiday trips. This includes inspecting tires for adequate tread, testing battery strength, checking antifreeze levels, and replacing worn wiper blades to ensure visibility during snow or freezing rain.
“Winter can start early in Missouri, and even light ice can create big problems,” a MoDOT spokesperson said. “Taking care of your car now helps everyone travel safely once temperatures drop.”
Officials also advise packing a winter emergency kit that includes:
- Blankets and extra clothing
- Flashlight and jumper cables
- Bottled water and non-perishable snacks
- Sand, salt, or kitty litter for traction
- Cell phone charger and first aid supplies
Such preparation can help motorists handle roadside delays or sudden weather changes during long-distance travel.
Traffic and Weather Concerns for Thanksgiving Week
Thanksgiving is among the busiest travel periods of the year, with thousands of families expected to hit Interstates I-70, I-44, and I-55. MoDOT warns that rapidly changing weather conditions are likely as winter approaches.
Drivers are encouraged to check road and traffic conditions in real-time using Traveler.MoDOT.org or MoDOT’s mobile app before beginning their trip. The website provides up-to-date information on construction zones, accidents, closures, and weather alerts statewide.
Officials recommend keeping at least half a tank of gas at all times during cold weather to prevent fuel line freeze-ups and to ensure enough fuel for unexpected delays.
Safe Driving Tips for Missouri Winter Roads
With colder temperatures arriving, even minor precipitation can turn dangerous on highways. MoDOT urges motorists to slow down and increase following distances when driving on potentially slick or snow-covered roads.
Other key safety tips include:
- Avoid using cruise control on icy roads.
- Brake and accelerate gradually to maintain traction.
- Stay alert for snowplows and never pass them on the right.
- Turn headlights on in low-visibility conditions.
These precautions are particularly important along major routes and rural highways, where winter storms can move in quickly and create hazardous travel conditions.
Officials Emphasize Early Planning
With cold fronts expected to sweep across the state later this month, MoDOT stresses that readiness now prevents emergencies later. Completing maintenance early not only reduces the risk of breakdowns but also keeps Missouri’s highways safe and efficient during one of the most congested travel weeks of the year.
Families traveling long distances should also inform others of their planned routes, allow extra time for weather-related delays, and stay alert for changing conditions through official state alerts.
“Preparedness saves lives,” MoDOT officials said. “If every driver takes time to inspect their vehicle and plan their route now, we can make this Thanksgiving one of the safest travel weeks yet.”
Conclusion
As Thanksgiving week approaches, Missouri drivers are encouraged to combine patience, preparation, and caution while traveling. Taking these steps before temperatures drop ensures a safe and smooth holiday journey for everyone on the road — from Kansas City to St. Louis and beyond.
What are your Thanksgiving travel plans this year? Share your safety tips and experiences in the comments below.
