Travel safely on Thanksgiving

Travelers headed over the river and through the woods to Grandma’s house this upcoming Thanksgiving holiday should plan now for winter weather, and expect delays on major routes.

Cross-mountain travel

Weather conditions over mountain passes can change rapidly. It is important for travelers to plan ahead and follow posted chain requirements. It’s often drivers who travel too fast, without traction tires or chains, or under the influence, that close a mountain pass for everyone. Practice installing chains before heading out the door.

No construction is planned on I-90 Thursday and Friday, Nov. 23-24. However, the usual holiday increase in traffic volumes means travelers should expect delays, especially eastbound on Wednesday and Thursday and westbound on Friday and Saturday.

Ferry travel

People boarding a state ferry by vehicle should prepare for long waits. Peak travel times on most routes are expected to be westbound, or onto an island, Wednesday and Thursday, Nov. 22-23, then eastbound, or off an island, Friday and Saturday, Nov. 24-25.

Travelers can visit the Washington State Ferries website for more details on sailings schedules, vehicle reservations, ferry alerts and terminal conditions.

Trains, airports and transit

Travelers making a trip by train, personal aircraft or bus also should plan ahead to avoid holiday delays.

Amtrak Cascades passengers are encouraged to purchase tickets early and plan to arrive at the station one hour before departure. Trains are running between Vancouver, British Columbia, and Eugene, Oregon, stopping at 18 stations along the way. Buses are available for travel between Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia and between Seattle and Bellingham.