The Christmas Day snow may have left many wondering if they could return home safely Sunday from holiday trips.

But as the day progressed, most area roads were more than just free of ice and snow - they were blown dry by stout afternoon winds.

A winter storm whipped through North Georgia Saturday, dropping snow across the region, guaranteeing a first-ever white Christmas for many residents.

A winter weather advisory was in effect through 1 p.m. Sunday, suggesting more snow could be on the way and post-holiday travel could be hazardous.

But road conditions improved quickly Sunday, even as cold temperatures kept snow on the grass.

"We've only worked three wrecks today in Hall County," said operator Donna Garrett of the Georgia State Patrol's Gainesville post, late Sunday afternoon.

"All of those were early this morning, and it looked like all (involved) a vehicle that slid off the road."

As the winter advisory ended, the wind advisory remained in force until 6 p.m., keeping temperatures below the freezing mark.

Despite the improving weather conditions, there were some isolated dangerous areas for motorists.

The Georgia Department of Transportation was reporting late Sunday that Ga. 348 in White County is "ice covered" and would be closed until today.

Also, widespread icy patches were reported on Interstate 85 in Jackson County on Sunday.

The National Weather Service in Peachtree City had placed North and Middle Georgia under a "hazardous weather outlook" on Sunday.

Many churches had closed. Hall County closed its compactor site operations at 10 a.m.

"We will be operational as soon as the weather allows," said Solid Waste Director Cary Lawler. "Please do not leave bags at our gates as this will only slow our operation when the weather does let up."

Temperatures are expected to rise slightly today, with the high reaching 35. Also, sunny skies are in the outlook through Wednesday.

The mercury is forecast to rise as the week progresses, hitting 59 on Saturday. A chance of rain is expected to return Wednesday night.

The Georgia Department of Public Safety begins its next holiday watch at 6 p.m. Thursday. The New Year's period will run until midnight Sunday.

As of noon Sunday, there were 334 crashes reported statewide, involving 146 injuries. Three people had been killed in wrecks worked by the Georgia State Patrol and two in wrecks worked by other agencies, according to the department.

The Hall County Sheriff's Office is taking part in the Governor's Office of Highway Safety's "Operation Zero Tolerance" that targets drunken drivers.

The campaign will continue through Sunday.

"This holiday travel period, the sheriff's office will use concentrated patrols and safety checkpoints to continue to push for seat belt compliance and to detect impaired drivers," said Col. Jeff Strickland, sheriff's office spokesman.