There will be no full construction or maintenance closures over the holidays along Arizona freeways, but state transportation officials said drivers should be aware of weather forecasts and stay up to date on road conditions.

Real-time highway conditions are available on the Arizona Department of Transportation’s Arizona Traveler Information site at az511.gov and the AZ511 app. ADOT also provides highway condition updates via its Twitter/X feed, @ArizonaDOT. 

Highway closures will not be scheduled between Friday afternoon and early Tuesday morning during each of the holiday weekends, according to ADOT.

“ADOT and other safety agencies, including the Arizona Department of Public Safety, encourage drivers to stay alert, get adequate rest before driving and buckle up,” transportation officials stated in a release.

Eight fatal crashes claimed eight lives on Arizona roadways, including local streets, over last year’s Christmas weekend, according to reports from law enforcement officials.

ADOT advises emergency kits in vehicles can help if travelers face inclement weather, experience car troubles or face an unscheduled stop in traffic. Items to pack include:

• Extra bottled water.
• Snack foods.
• Flashlight and extra batteries.
• Blankets.
• Warm clothing, including extra gloves.
• First-aid kit.

Drivers and passengers also should remember prescription medications and items such as a cellphone charger in case of unexpected travel delays, officials said.

Drivers also should check their vehicles before traveling, including tire pressure, engine belts and hoses, fluid levels and the condition of windshield wipers, they said.