SEATTLE, Washington – With Thanksgiving travel approaching, Washington officials are urging drivers to prepare vehicles now for snow, ice, and changing road conditions across the state. From Seattle to Spokane, transportation leaders say early readiness and maintenance are essential before mountain passes and wet highways turn hazardous later this month.
According to the Washington State Department of Transportation, early November is the best time to inspect tires, test batteries, check antifreeze levels, and replace worn wiper blades. Officials recommend that every vehicle carry a winter emergency kit — including blankets, jumper cables, a flashlight, bottled water, snacks, and traction aids such as sand or kitty litter.
Drivers planning to travel I-90 through Snoqualmie Pass, U.S. 2 over Stevens Pass, or I-5 between Olympia and Bellingham should prepare for heavy holiday traffic and sudden weather shifts. “Mountain conditions can change by the mile — sun in Seattle, snow in the Cascades,” a WSDOT spokesperson said. “Preparing your car now keeps your holiday travel safe and stress-free.” Motorists are also advised to keep fuel tanks at least half full, pack warm clothing, and check WSDOT.com/Travel or the WSDOT 511 app for live pass reports and road closures.
With Thanksgiving marking one of Washington’s busiest travel weeks, state officials emphasize that early vehicle prep and patience behind the wheel will help ensure safe, smooth travel across the region as winter weather season begins.
