— Heavy storms that moved through the Triangle on Wednesday brought welcomed rain but were not as severe as originally predicted.

WRAL meteorologist Mike Maze said about .84 inches of rain fell Wednesday at Raleigh-Durham International Airport, which is the most the area has seen since Jan. 2.

Storms began at about 7 p.m. and severe thunderstorm warnings were issued by the National Weather Service for Alamance, Chatham, Orange and Wake counties throughout the night.

Although forecast models showed the storms could bring hail and strong, straight-line winds, the intensity of the system decreased by time it moved into the Triangle and no local damage was reported.

Although not as severe as originally expected, the heavy rain caused a few problems around Wake County.

On Six Forks Road near Sandy Forks Road in Raleigh, emergency workers worked to clear drains that became clogged as a result of the heavy rain. The work caused a small traffic backup.

Wet roads let to a few fender-benders across the area, but no major accidents were reported as a result of weather.

Once the system completely moves out, temperatures will plummet compared to Wednesday's warm weather.

Low temperatures Thursday morning could dip into the 30s and gusty winds that could reach up to 35 mph will make those temperatures feel even colder.

"It'll be a much colder start tomorrow morning, Maze said. "Make sure the kids are dressed approproately."

WRAL Chief Meteorologist Greg Fishel said the wind gusts are most likely from about 8 a.m. to the early afternoon.

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