ATLANTA — Santa Claus may be greeted by light snow on Christmas Eve across parts of metro Atlanta and north Georgia.
A storm system was moving across north Georgia on Thursday, bringing steady rain for much of the day ahead of a strong cold front.
According to 11Alive Meteorologist Samantha Mohr, by late in the afternoon, some of the rain was beginning to freeze as temperatures were beginning to drop across the region.
During the evening hours, the rain was expected to transition into sleet or a light snow mix before ending before midnight.
The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for possible light snow accumulations in some of the higher elevations of the north Georgia Mountains.
Any accumulations closer to the metro Atlanta area will be limited to a dusting.
According to spokesperson Natalie Dale, crews from the Georgia Department of Transportation have been out throughout the afternoon and evening hours spreading brine on roadways and bridges to help with any slick spots that may form.
Cold air rushing into the region following the precipitation will allow for the development of black ice in some areas. The winds will help to dry out many areas, but patchy black ice will remain in some areas overnight and into Christmas morning, especially on less-traveled roadways and elevated surfaces.
Caution is advised while driving, especially Thursday night and early on Christmas Day.
Dale advised motorists to remain off the roadways, especially during the overnight hours and early on Friday morning.