I-205 in Portland is expected to experience heavy traffic during the Thanksgiving holiday, according to the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). The agency is urging drivers to plan ahead and take extra precautions as travel volumes increase.
“Expect delays. Thanksgiving travel is busy, no matter the weather. Plan ahead and allow extra time,” ODOT stated.
Drivers are encouraged to check road conditions before departing by visiting TripCheck.com, which provides live camera feeds, temperature readings, and updated information about roadways.
“Check conditions before your trip. Visit TripCheck.com for cameras, temperatures, and updated road information,” ODOT advised.
The department also recommends watching highway message signs for updates on chain requirements, weather hazards, and potential delays. Travelers should be prepared for winter driving by carrying tire chains and packing supplies such as water, snacks, warm clothing, blankets, medications, and other essentials in case of slowdowns.
“Watch message signs. They provide critical updates about the road ahead—chain requirements, weather hazards, and delays,” ODOT said. “Prepare for winter driving. Carry chains and know how to use them. Pack water, snacks, warm clothes, blankets, medications, and anything you’d need if traffic slows to a crawl.”
ODOT urges motorists to adjust their driving for rain, snow, fog or heavy traffic by reducing speed and increasing following distance. The agency also emphasizes giving snowplows ample space on the roads.
“Drive for conditions. Rain, snow, fog or heavy traffic—slow down and leave more space between vehicles,” ODOT said. “Give snowplows room. Never pass a plow on the right. The safest place to be in a snowstorm is behind the plow.”
Choosing an alert driver is important during holiday travel periods when fatigue can set in after long days or large meals.
“Choose a sober, focused and alert driver. Holiday meals and long days can make you drowsy—don’t drive tired,” ODOT warned.
Finally, with reduced visibility due to winter weather and early nightfall this time of year, drivers are reminded to watch out for pedestrians and cyclists.
“Watch for people walking and biking. Visibility drops in winter weather and early darkness,” according to ODOT.
