Roads across North Alabama are icy, as U.S. 72 proves in Athens. (PHOTO/HOLLY HOMAN)

MADISON – The first round of wintry precipitation has closed schools for Feb. 11 and iced roads across Madison County, including the cities of Madison and Huntsville.

“Madison City Schools will be closed today, Tuesday, Feb. 11,” superintendent Dr. Dee Fowler said. “We have very slippery driving conditions throughout the city. We do not want to add school buses and teenage drivers into the mix.”

Madison County Schools, Huntsville City Schools and the University of Alabama in Huntsville also are closed. Madison City Hall will open at noon on Feb. 11, while the Madison County Courthouse is closed.

In Madison, Public Works can not access Eastview Drive, which remains closed from Hughes Road to Slaughter Road. Workers have treated other Madison roadways, but roads remain slick.

Madison Public Works advises motorists to drive slowly, allow for extra stopping time and eliminate in-car distractions. Barricades are set up across numerous roads, and motorists should not drive around or cross at these points.

For a non-emergency situation, call the Madison Police Department at 256-772-5658.

In Athens, Police Chief Floyd Johnson said ice and snow had made roads slick, with several cars in ditches. “If you don’t have to get out this morning, stay home until road conditions improve,” Johnson said.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning in effect on Wednesday, Feb. 12 from 6 a.m. to Thursday, Feb. 13 at 6 a.m.

Light snow will redevelop overnight and become widespread and heavy at times on Wednesday morning, Feb. 12. Snow may mix with sleet at times. All areas of North Alabama and Southern Tennessee are expected to see accumulating snow.

A winter storm warning means the NWS expects severe winter weather conditions to occur. Significant amounts of snow are forecast that will make travel dangerous. Only travel in an emergency.

Motorists traveling during a Winter Storm Warning should have a flashlight, food and water in case of an emergency.