Rain moves out; sunshine returns Saturday

Skies began to clear over central North Carolina just as the sun set Friday, ending a day that saw freezing rain melt into flooded streets in parts of the Triangle and Triad. Raleigh and Greensboro saw more than two inches accumulate over 24 hours and most communities saw at least an inch, said WRAL Chief Meteorologist Greg Fishel.

The low pressure system that brought cold, wet weather drifted off the East Coast as evening fell and leaves behind a much more pleasant weekend.

"The sun is so powerful in this part of the country at this time of year that, given the chance, it can make a big impact," Fishel said.

That impact will be felt by mid-morning Saturday, when any lingering clouds will burn away leaving clear skies and temperatures that will rise to a much more seasonal level.

Forecast highs are in the mid-60s for Saturday and Sunday and could push into the 70s early next week. Both days will see just a slight breeze.