ATLANTA — The state Department of Transportation (DOT) will begin treating roads, bridges, and overpasses in Northwest Georgia at 7 p.m. Wednesday night in anticipation of a winter weather system expected to hit the northern half of the state early Friday.

Brining operations will begin at midnight in metro Atlanta and 7 a.m. Thursday in Northeast Georgia.

Crews will work 12-hour shifts and will prioritize treating interstates, state routes, bridges, and overpasses north of and including Interstate 20. State routes and interstates south of I-20 are also slated to be treated Wednesday into Thursday and then re-treated as needed.

A mix of rain, freezing rain, sleet, and snow will begin to move into western Georgia early Friday morning and cover much of North and Middle Georgia by sunrise. This wintry mix will continue throughout the day Friday into Friday night before diminishing early Saturday morning.

A few inches of snow and one-quarter of an inch or more of ice will be possible on Friday across much of North Georgia and parts of Middle Georgia.

“As with any weather system that might impact Georgia communities, we are actively monitoring the approaching winter storm and taking action now to ensure our communities are prepared for any possible impact,” Gov. Brian Kemp said. “Along with other state agency leaders, I’m urging Georgians to stay weather aware, especially as they make plans for the coming days.”

Motorists in affected areas are asked to plan now to limit travel as much as possible from Friday morning through mid-day Saturday. Those who must venture out during this time are advised to give DOT crews space on the roads to help ensure they can safely do their jobs by staying back at least 100 feet.