OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma – With Thanksgiving travel approaching, Oklahoma officials are reminding drivers to prepare vehicles now for winter weather and holiday traffic. From Oklahoma City to Tulsa, motorists are being urged to check vehicles, pack emergency gear, and stay alert as colder weather and busy roads return later this month.
According to the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, early November is the ideal time to inspect tires, check antifreeze, test batteries, and replace worn wiper blades. Drivers should also pack a winter emergency kit that includes a blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, bottled water, snacks, and traction materials such as sand or kitty litter.
Motorists using I-40, I-35, and I-44 during the Thanksgiving rush should prepare for long drives and quickly changing weather — especially across open plains where freezing drizzle or strong winds can develop without warning. “Even in Oklahoma, winter can surprise drivers,” an ODOT spokesperson said. “Preparation now makes every holiday trip safer.” Officials recommend keeping at least half a tank of gas, dressing warmly, and checking OKRoads.org or Drive Oklahoma for live traffic, plow, and weather updates.
As one of the nation’s central travel corridors, Oklahoma highways see a sharp increase in volume around Thanksgiving. ODOT emphasizes that early maintenance and safety planning help prevent delays and protect travelers as winter driving season begins.
