SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – With Thanksgiving travel fast approaching, Utah transportation officials are encouraging drivers to prepare vehicles now for the return of winter weather. From Salt Lake City to Provo, motorists are being urged to complete maintenance checks and pack emergency supplies before mountain snow and freezing temperatures arrive later this month.
According to the Utah Department of Transportation, early November is the ideal time to inspect tires, test batteries, and top off antifreeze. Drivers should also replace worn wiper blades and carry a winter emergency kit — including blankets, a flashlight, jumper cables, bottled water, snacks, and traction material such as sand or kitty litter.
Motorists traveling I-15, I-80, and U.S. 89 during Thanksgiving week should plan for heavy traffic and fast-changing mountain conditions. “Utah’s canyons and passes can turn treacherous without warning,” a UDOT spokesperson said. “Checking your vehicle now ensures safer travel once snow begins to fall.” Officials also advise keeping at least half a tank of gas, dressing in layers, and checking UDOTTraffic.utah.gov for real-time road, plow, and closure information.
As families plan Thanksgiving trips, UDOT emphasizes that early preparation and awareness are key to staying safe during Utah’s long and often unpredictable winter driving season.
