Highway Patrol Urges Caution Ahead of Busy Thanksgiving Travel Period

Park Hills, Mo. (KFMO) - The Thanksgiving holiday is one of the busiest travel periods of the year, and officials expect roadways across Missouri to see a significant increase in traffic.

Missouri State Highway Patrol Sergeant Dallas Thompson explains when travel for the Thanksgiving holiday will see the most drivers on the roadways.

Thompson says drivers should anticipate heavier traffic and the possibility of delays throughout the weekend. He adds that no matter the traffic volume, safety should remain a top priority.

The counting period for the 2025 Thanksgiving holiday weekend runs from 6 p.m. Wednesday, November 26, through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, November 30. During this time, troopers will participate in Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness & Reduction Effort), focusing on enforcing traffic laws and assisting the public.

During the 2024 Thanksgiving holiday counting period, 11 people were killed and 571 injured in 1,664 traffic crashes.

The Highway Patrol encourages motorists to plan ahead, drive sober, buckle up, and remain alert to help make this year’s holiday travel safer for everyone.