RICHMOND, Virginia – With Thanksgiving travel just around the corner, Virginia officials are urging drivers to get vehicles ready now for the return of winter road conditions. From Richmond to Roanoke, motorists are being asked to take preventive steps this week to ensure safe, reliable travel during one of the year’s busiest driving periods.
According to the Virginia Department of Transportation, early November is the best time to complete winter vehicle maintenance — checking tires, testing batteries, and topping off fluids before the first freeze. Officials also recommend packing a winter emergency kit with a blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, bottled water, snacks, and traction materials such as sand or kitty litter.
Drivers traveling on I-64, I-81, or I-95 should prepare for heavy Thanksgiving traffic and variable weather between the Blue Ridge Mountains and coastal areas. “A few minutes of preparation now can save hours of trouble later,” a VDOT spokesperson said. Motorists are encouraged to keep gas tanks at least half full, carry extra layers, and charge phones before long trips.
VDOT also advises travelers to use 511Virginia.org for real-time updates on traffic, plowing, and road conditions throughout the winter season. Officials emphasize that early preparation helps prevent breakdowns and ensures safer, smoother travel for families hitting Virginia’s highways ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.
