SALISBURY – Sleet and freezing rain left its mark across Rowan County on Friday.  The “wintry mix” started just after 9:00 am, took a short break during the midday hours, then came back much heavier in the early afternoon.

There were numerous traffic accidents during the day, including at least one on Interstate 85 near Jake Alexander Boulevard, Highway 29, Stone Road, and Chenault Road.  Most of the accidents resulted in damage to the vehicles, but thankfully not in serious injuries.

Conditions, particularly on the rural roads were treacherous and emergency officials advised drivers to stay off the roads if at all possible until sometime on Saturday.

Schools in Rowan County were originally going to dismiss four hours early, but when the winter weather moved in early, dismissal was pushed up another thirty minutes.

At Overton Elementary School one parent told WBTV that the weather didn’t bother her.

“I love it, I only wish we could go out and play in it,” the mother of a young boy said.  But instead of playing, she was heading to work, and taking her son with her.

Rowan Cabarrus Community College and Catawba College both called off classes early in the day.

“I’m going back to bed,” one student told WBTV.  “I’m going to my room to catch a few movies on NetFlix,” said another.

In downtown Salisbury icicles formed on the canvas awnings at many of the shops. Many events were called off, including the Salisbury Kiwanis Club banquet that had been set for Friday night.