Little Rock, AR – As Thanksgiving travel ramps up, Arkansas transportation officials are urging motorists to prepare vehicles early for winter weather conditions. From Fort Smith to Jonesboro, drivers are being reminded that routine maintenance and early readiness can help prevent breakdowns and ensure safer holiday travel across the state’s highways.
The Importance of Early Winter Vehicle Prep
The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ArDOT) has emphasized that November’s mild temperatures make it the perfect time to prepare for colder weather ahead. Officials recommend that drivers perform thorough vehicle inspections before hitting the road for the holiday rush.
Key recommendations include:
- Inspecting tires for proper tread and pressure.
- Testing car batteries and replacing weak ones.
- Topping off antifreeze and windshield washer fluid.
- Replacing worn wiper blades to maintain visibility in rain, snow, or sleet.
ArDOT also encourages drivers to assemble winter emergency kits for every vehicle, including blankets, flashlights, jumper cables, bottled water, snacks, and traction aids such as sand or kitty litter. These items can make a crucial difference during roadside emergencies, especially in rural or elevated regions where conditions can worsen quickly.
Expected Travel Conditions on Major Highways
Drivers traveling on I-40, I-30, and I-49 should be prepared for heavy traffic and potentially unpredictable weather, especially in the Ozark Mountains and higher elevation areas. ArDOT has cautioned that while Arkansas typically sees mild Novembers, winter systems can develop suddenly, creating slick or icy conditions.
“Winter weather in Arkansas can be unpredictable,” an ArDOT spokesperson said. “Checking your car now helps prevent roadside trouble and keeps your family safe during holiday travel.”
Motorists are also advised to keep fuel tanks at least half full, carry extra clothing, and check IDriveArkansas.com for real-time traffic and weather updates before beginning long trips.
Safety Tips for Holiday Travelers
To minimize delays and reduce risks on the road, officials recommend that drivers follow these safety guidelines during Thanksgiving week:
- Plan routes in advance and allow extra time for traffic or weather delays.
- Avoid distracted driving and ensure mobile devices are charged for emergencies.
- Slow down on wet or icy roads, increasing following distance for better control.
- Watch for black ice, particularly on bridges and overpasses.
- Stay alert for highway maintenance crews and emergency responders working along major routes.
State police and highway patrol units will also increase patrols along major interstates during the holiday period to monitor speeding and impaired driving.
Preparing for an Active Winter Season
Meteorologists predict a cooler, wetter pattern developing across Arkansas in late November, which could bring light snow, freezing rain, or icy patches to some northern and western counties. Officials urge drivers not to wait for the first storm to begin winterizing vehicles.
The Arkansas Division of Emergency Management has joined ArDOT in encouraging residents to stay informed through weather alerts, local radio updates, and the National Weather Service forecasts.
Conclusion
With one of the busiest travel weeks of the year ahead, taking simple precautions now can help ensure a safe and stress-free Thanksgiving journey for families across Arkansas. Officials say that being proactive — from checking tire pressure to packing an emergency kit — can make all the difference when winter weather strikes unexpectedly.
What are your plans for Thanksgiving travel this year? Share your safety tips and experiences in the comments below.
