RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- ABC11 First Alert Forecast Team is tracking multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms expected to move across central North Carolina through Friday, bringing the threat of heavy rain, flash flooding and isolated storm impacts.
A Flood Watch remains in effect as some communities could see 2 to 4 inches of rain, with locally higher amounts exceeding 5 inches. Heavy downpours may lead to flooding in low-lying areas, along creeks and streams, and on roadways.
Stay with ABC11 throughout the day for the latest weather alerts, flooding reports, power outages and forecast updates.
W. Barbee Street has reopened between Wakefield Street and Arendell Avenue after crews cleared a downed tree that had blocked the roadway, according to the Zebulon Fire Department.
Motorists can once again travel through the area but are encouraged to continue using caution as cleanup efforts continue following recent storms.
A large tree brought down power lines near the intersection of W. Garner Road and Creech Road on Friday, blocking the roadway in a residential area.
Garner police have closed the road while crews work to clear the tree and assess the damage.
Drivers are being urged to avoid the area and seek alternate routes. There was no immediate word on injuries or how long the closure may last.
This comes as central North Carolina continues to deal with saturated ground and storm impacts following several days of heavy rain.
On Friday, a Flood Watch remains in effect until 9 a.m. for counties south of the Triangle. While the highest flood risk has passed, additional showers and thunderstorms could produce locally heavy rain and isolated flash flooding this morning. Officials warn that excessive runoff may still lead to flooding of creeks, streams, rivers and other low-lying areas.
A few gusty, non-severe storms are possible through the weekend. Rain chances will gradually decrease by Sunday before drier weather returns and temperatures climb back into the 90s next week.
Widespread rain continued throughout the night, but several days of wet weather don't mean central North Carolina's drought is over.
According to the NC Drought Advisory Council, Wake County moved down to severe drought status while Orange and Durham counties remain under extreme drought conditions.
Durham Mayor Leo Williams said the recent rain isn't enough to move Durham from its stage 2 water restrictions. The city needs days of rain to move the needle.
The rain was a headache for homeowners and drivers, but it was a major relief for communities that desperately need it.
Central North Carolina is facing a drought that is considered unprecedented, and Durham is facing some of the most extreme conditions.
"We are so grateful for this rain," Williams said. "But we are not out of the woods yet."
That's why Durham will stay in the current water restrictions.
"We're getting what we need, but we haven't gotten enough yet to reduce the restrictions back to a stage 1 yet," Williams said. "So, we're going to remain at stage 2, and after a few days, we'll see where we are, see what the reservoir looks like, and then we'll make a decision."
The mayor reminded residents to be good neighbors and conserve their water use.
"Do not power wash your house right now, because when you power wash your house, you may be taking water for someone else who needs to drink it," he said.
Williams reported that the city water use has dropped about 12%, but officials would like to see a 30% reduction.
