LITTLE ROCK, Arkansas – As Thanksgiving travel approaches, Arkansas officials are reminding drivers to prepare vehicles now for winter weather and the busy holiday rush. From Little Rock to Fayetteville, motorists are being urged to take advantage of early November’s mild conditions to perform safety checks and gather essential gear before colder air and potential storms arrive later this month.
According to the Arkansas Department of Transportation, early maintenance is key for safe winter driving. Drivers should inspect tires, top off antifreeze, test batteries, and replace worn wiper blades. Officials also advise keeping a winter emergency kit in every vehicle — including blankets, jumper cables, a flashlight, bottled water, snacks, and traction materials such as sand or kitty litter.
Motorists using I-40, I-30, and I-49 during the Thanksgiving week should expect heavier traffic and quickly changing weather, especially across higher elevations in the Ozarks. “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.” Drivers are also encouraged to keep fuel tanks at least half full, carry extra clothing, and use IDriveArkansas.com for real-time road and weather updates.
With one of the busiest travel weeks of the year ahead, officials stress that early preparation will reduce delays and improve safety across Arkansas highways as the winter driving season begins.
