ST. LOUIS, Missouri – With Thanksgiving travel fast approaching, Missouri officials are reminding drivers to prepare vehicles now for the return of winter driving conditions. From St. Louis to Kansas City, motorists are being urged to complete maintenance and safety checks before snow, ice, and heavy traffic arrive later this month.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, early November is the best time to inspect tires, check antifreeze levels, and replace worn wiper blades. Officials also advise testing batteries and packing a winter emergency kit with blankets, a flashlight, jumper cables, bottled water, snacks, and traction materials such as sand or kitty litter.
Drivers planning Thanksgiving trips along I-70, I-44, and I-55 should expect busy roads and quickly changing weather conditions. “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 recommend keeping at least half a tank of gas, carrying warm clothing, and checking Traveler.MoDOT.org for real-time traffic, construction, and weather updates.
With one of the year’s busiest travel weeks approaching, MoDOT emphasizes that readiness now will help prevent breakdowns, reduce roadside emergencies, and keep families moving safely across Missouri’s highways through the Thanksgiving holiday.
