RENO, Nevada – With Thanksgiving travel fast approaching, Nevada officials are urging drivers to prepare vehicles now for changing conditions across the state’s mountains and desert highways. From Reno to Las Vegas, motorists are being reminded that early maintenance and planning can prevent breakdowns and ensure safe travel once winter weather returns later this month.
According to the Nevada Department of Transportation, November is the right time to inspect tires, test batteries, top off antifreeze, and replace wiper blades. Officials also recommend keeping a winter emergency kit in every vehicle — including blankets, a flashlight, jumper cables, bottled water, snacks, and traction materials such as sand or kitty litter.
Drivers using I-80, U.S. 50, and I-15 for Thanksgiving trips should plan for long distances between services and rapidly changing weather, particularly near mountain passes and high plateaus. “From the Sierra snow to desert cold, Nevada travel can be unpredictable in November,” a NDOT spokesperson said. “Preparing your car now keeps holiday travel safer and smoother.” Motorists are also encouraged to keep gas tanks at least half full and check NVRoads.com for live traffic, plow, and closure updates.
As families prepare for one of the busiest travel weeks of the year, NDOT stresses that early preparation helps prevent emergencies and keeps drivers safe across Nevada’s vast and varied highways this Thanksgiving season.
