JACKSON, Mississippi – As Thanksgiving travel nears, Mississippi transportation officials are encouraging drivers to prepare vehicles now for the upcoming winter season. From Jackson to Tupelo, motorists are being reminded that early maintenance and smart packing can prevent emergencies once colder air and holiday traffic move in later this month.
According to the Mississippi Department of Transportation, early November is the ideal time to inspect tires, check antifreeze levels, replace worn wipers, and test batteries. Officials also urge drivers to carry a simple winter emergency kit with a blanket, jumper cables, flashlight, bottled water, snacks, and traction material such as sand or kitty litter — even in southern regions where snow is rare.
Motorists traveling I-55, I-20, and U.S. 49 during the Thanksgiving rush should plan for heavy traffic and cooler conditions that can bring frost or black ice overnight. “Preparation is key, even in Mississippi,” an MDOT spokesperson said. “A few quick checks now will help ensure a safe, smooth trip when families hit the road for the holidays.” Drivers are also advised to keep gas tanks at least half full and use MDOTtraffic.com or the MDOT Traffic mobile app for real-time road and incident updates.
With holiday travel set to increase statewide, officials emphasize that readiness today will help protect drivers and reduce delays across Mississippi’s highways as the state heads into the winter driving season.
