Rush hour arrives early in Atlanta as snow looms

Rush-hour traffic came early Friday.

As frozen precipitation started to fall, drivers apparently heeded officials’ pleas and began heading home around 1 p.m.

The traffic volume was heavy for several hours, but it improved significantly by 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. when Atlanta roads are usually packed.

Mayor Kasim Reed had urged motorists to be home by 4 p.m. in advance of a winter storm that was expected to bring snow and ice to North Georgia.

MORE: Atlanta snow: The latest news

Georgia Department of Transportation spokesman Scott Higley said: “Rush hour is several hours early today but traffic isn’t congested due to road conditions. So, our best advice for the moment is to use 511 at www.511ga.org, heed any specific messages on the DOT changing messaging signage, get home before dark and stay there if at all possible.”

Officials continue to urge drivers still on the roads to use caution.

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