(Memphis) 2012 is a more deadly year on Tennessee roads with more than 980 traffic fatalities this year compared to 937 last year.

The American Automobile Association predicts travel will be up over three percent today compared to this time last year. 

News Channel 3’s weather team says some of those roads in the Mid-South will be icy tonight because there is a blizzard warning in North East Arkansas and North West Tennessee, and there’s a winter weather advisory for the rest of the area.

Snow plows and salt crews are already on standby in Dyer County, and the Emergency Operations director says they are preparing to deal with the possibility of more than eleven inches of snow.

When it comes to driving on icy roads in the Mid-south we’re simply not used to it. 

Emergency Management officials say the best thing you can do to stay safe is stay off the road even if it means missing a Christmas party.

But they say if you do have to head out you should wait until snow plows and sand trucks have covered the roads and give yourself a longer driving time so you can drive more slowly. 

You should also leave plenty of room between your car and the car in front of you and brake slowly so you don’t skid on the ice.

Odie Staggs says he feels bad for the crews that have to work on Christmas to prepare the roads for ice, but he’s still optimistic.

“I hope it fairs up and doesn’t get to cold.  I don’t like winter. I just don’t like winter,” said Staggs.

Andy Williams says the weather may mess up some Christmas plans, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. 

“If you don’t have to get out don’t get out. If you have to walk, walk,” said Williams.

You can also download a T-Dot app on your smartphone to stay updated on the latest road conditions.