The National Weather Service in Peachtree City has issued a winter storm warning for the Gainesville area.

Meteorologists issued the warning after snowfall in the area became heavier than originally predicted.

Now, meteorologists are expecting between 2 and 4 inches of snow to fall in Gainesville by midnight.

The winter storm watch is in effect until 4 a.m. Saturday.

Hall County Dispatch reported multiple wrecks on area roadways beginning around 4 p.m.

Information on the National Weather Service web site warns that roadways across the area are becoming slick and “conditions are expected to deteriorate as temperatures fall.”

DOT officials are watching the weather and urging Northeast Georgia drivers to use caution.

“We urge caution — get where they’re going and stay there, if possible,” Georgia Department of Transportation spokeswoman Teri Pope said. “And especially be cautious as you approach bridges, they’re the first place ice can form.”

Road crews have been spreading salt and stone on bridges and other known trouble spots in the area. Interstates and multi-lane highways are the road crews’ top priorities.

“We have not worked yet on two-lane state routes; they are the lowest priority, and folks need to know to stick to main roads,” Pope said.