Deadly storms tear through Wake County, leaving trail of damage

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Cleanup is underway across Wake County after a line of strong thunderstorms rolled through Tuesday night, bringing heavy rain, damaging winds and a tornado warning.

The storms left behind widespread damage across the Triangle, knocking down trees, causing power outages and creating dangerous driving conditions. At its peak, about 12,000 Duke Energy customers in Wake County were without power as crews worked overnight to restore service.

According to Raleigh police, Millbrook Road is closed at Farley Drive Wednesday morning just before Six Forks Road because of downed powerlines.

The severe weather also turned deadly in north Raleigh. Police said a man was killed when a tree fell onto a home on Bartons Enclave Lane. Emergency crews found him trapped inside the house, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. Two other people were inside the home when the tree fell but were not injured.

From heavy rain to powerful wind gusts, emergency crews stayed busy throughout the night responding to storm-related incidents.

Storm damage was reported across much of Wake County. Near Pinecrest Road and Leesville Road in Raleigh, a fallen tree continued to block part of the roadway Wednesday morning.

On Norwood Road in north Raleigh, a large tree fell across the street. Officials said a driver later crashed into the downed tree and suffered minor injuries. Crews worked overnight to clear the roadway, which has since reopened.

Another tree crashed onto a home on Country Court off Falls of Neuse Road, causing significant damage. At least three vehicles were destroyed, but no injuries were reported.

Raleigh police also said parts of a falling tree struck a fire truck that was responding to a call. The truck sustained minor damage and remained in service until Wednesday morning. No one was hurt.

The storms also disrupted flights at Raleigh-Durham International Airport and led to reports of flooded roads and yards in some areas.

Utility crews, road crews and homeowners are continuing cleanup efforts across Wake County.