KENNEWICK, Wash. – According to Triple-A, the company projects more than 115 million people will travel more than 50 miles this holiday season.
The Washington State Department of Transportation‘s Public Information Officer Summer Derrey said the day before Christmas Eve and the Tuesday after Christmas will have heavy traffic heading east and west. Derrey said to make sure you’re ready for anything.
“Drivers in every single capacity need to be prepared from excellent tires to having chains in your vehicle and knowing how to put them on,” said Derrey. “Packing good winter gear incase you get stuck to stay warm.”
Derrey said you’ll see significant travel in the Tri-Cities as people come and go.
Derrey said WSDOT is doing its part working 24/7 in the wintertime.
“Our maintenance crews do what we call a hot seat,” she said. “Every piece of equipment has a person and an operator in it to help patrol the highways to keep them clear of snow and ice.”
Derrey said to make sure you’re checking WSDOT’s travel charts and weather before you head out.
Derrey said if you’re looking for a last-minute Christmas gift for a teenage driver who has never driven in the snow, think about getting them a car kit and teaching them how to drive in the snow.
