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The big problem so far this morning for motorists is a fallen tree and downed power lines blocking 7th Street in the Elizabeth neighborhood near Charlotte's uptown.
The tree fell overnight, knocking out power to several hundred Duke Energy customers and blocking the road. The road is closed between Pecan Avenue and Hawthorne Lane. Charlotte-Mecklenburg police Capt. John Williams said it is not clear when 7th Street will be reopened.
Motorists can use Independence Boulevard as an alternate.
One additional note to motorists: Traffic signals in the area are not operating properly, and police are directing traffic at some intersections.
Otherwise, motorists should be careful on secondary roads this morning for fallen tree limbs and other debris. Gusty winds late Thursday night blew down branches and small trees on a number of streets.
Another large tree fell on Plaza Road Extension at Hood Road, and it has caused traffic signals in the area to malfunction. And a tree fell on Wendover Road, but that thoroughfare is open.
At one point during the night, Duke Energy crews were dealing with downed power lines across Mecklenburg County.
The weather is blustery and cold this morning. Temperatures have fallen below freezing, and forecasters are predicting a cold day. Despite sunshine, highs will only reach the middle 40s, and there will be a cold wind.
