The Washington State Department of Transportation is asking people to delay holiday travel until later in the week if at all possible.

“If you can, delay travel until Tuesday or Wednesday,” said Chris Christopher, WSDOT maintenance director. “Conditions continue to deteriorate today, especially in the Puget Sound area. If you have to be on the road, slow down, drive for conditions and let WSDOT trucks through.”

Christopher said WSDOT has all its crews out, but it’s difficult to clear the roads in high-traffic areas.

“If you must drive, slow down and increase your following distance,” said WSP Chief John R. Batiste. “Leave early so you won’t be tempted to rush and risk a collision.”

WSDOT is ready for the expected increased traffic for the Thanksgiving holiday. Drivers should be prepared, check travel and roadway conditions on WSDOT’s website and pack their winter weather supplies, including tire chains. WSDOT offers numerous winter driving tips.

Know Before You Go

• WSDOT offers several ways to get up-to-date traffic and construction information from its website before you leave your home or office.

• Look at weather forecasts and road temperatures throughout the state.

• A color-coded map shows statewide traffic conditions.

• Call 511. WSDOT’s driver information phone line provides real-time traffic, incident and closure information.

On the Road

• Overhead and roadside electronic signs provide emergency and incident alerts and, in some Seattle-area locations during rush hours, point-to-point travel times.

• Highway advisory radio allows drivers to tune in to hear updates when the flashing lights along the highway are activated.