The Arkansas National Guard is reminding drivers to use caution and seek alternate routes due to an uptick in military vehicle traffic ahead of a training exercise.

Now through May 8, 2021, officials are warning drivers to expect extra military vehicle traffic on I-40 and other roadways as units make their way to as military units make their way to Fort Chaffee, near Fort Smith, Arkansas, for a training exercise.

“We’re alerting the public in advance because we want to avoid potential mishaps as these heavy trucks, equipment and Soldiers make their way to Fort Chaffee Joint Maneuver Training Center,” said Lt. Col Brian Mason, Arkansas National Guard public affairs officer. “We encourage the public to plan accordingly and allow extra time in their travels, especially if those travels include traveling on I-40 and through construction zones.”

The training exercise at Fort Chaffee is in preparation for a larger training exercise at the Joint Readiness Training Center in Fort Polk, Louisiana, later in the summer.