School systems across northwest Alabama are opening late because of the threat of icy weather and flooding.
Schools in Colbert, Cullman, Fayette, Franklin, Lamar, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Marion and Morgan counties delayed opening for at least two hours Tuesday as a safety precaution.
City school systems in Florence, Muscle Shoals, Sheffield, Tuscumbia and Winfield were among those delaying opening.
Forecasters say temperatures were around freezing in areas, creating the possibility of road icing after days of rain. Freezing rain was reported in spots.
Flood watches covered the state's northwest and northeastern corners, along with the entire western section of the state from Birmingham to just north of Mobile.
The weather service said skies should turn partly cloudy later in the day. Temperatures should rise well above freezing statewide.
Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.