Local schools delayed due to weather

Potentially dangerous winter driving conditions predicted by the National Weather Service have convinced several area school systems to postpone classes,

Albemarle County and Nelson County schools both will open two hours late this morning to avoid possible freezing rain or ice on roads in the districts. Other schools, including Augusta County and the Miller School, will also open later this morning. Augusta will be one hour later and Miller School two hours late.

The delays are due to predicted weather hazards on area roads from a weather service winter advisory. The service is predicting that periods of freezing rain or sleet could cause travel difficulties, including slick and slippery roads and limited visibility as temperatures dip closer toward freezing. Most of the icing is expected at elevations above 1,000 feet, according to the advisory.

So far roads are wet but the Virginia Department of Transportation and local law enforcement officials are reporting no icing in the area.

The weather service advisory is in effect until 11 p.m. tonight.