A line of sleet and freezing rain has now reached St. Clair County, and the National Weather Service in Birmingham has extended its Winter Weather Advisory for the county from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Sleet accumulation totals are expected to reach a quarter inch, which could severely impact travel in the area. All schools were closed today in anticipation of winter weather.

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The county has been under a Freezing Rain Advisory since at 3 a.m. on March 5 as arctic air pushed southward into central Alabama, bringing with it the possibility for icy precipitation. Temperatures will fall throughout the evening. As of Tuesday afternoon, March 4, the Advisory is scheduled to end at 3 p.m. on March 5 as temperatures climb above freezing.

According to a Tuesday report from the National Weather Service in Birmingham, rain will begin this evening and continue through the day Thursday. The rain is forecasted to transition into sleet and freezing rain on the I-59 corridor by 9 a.m. on Thursday, March 5.

A freezing rain advisory means that periods of freezing rain or freezing drizzle will cause travel difficulties. Be prepared for slippery roads. Slow down and use caution while driving. Be prepared for an upgrade to a winter storm warning if needed.

The NWS is also predicting wind gusts tomorrow up to 30 miles per hour.

Curious on the difference between sleet and freezing rain? Click here.