Long-lived winter storm pelts northeast

For four long days, the snow came, turned to slush, then the snow came again.

Finally, the eastern United States is digging itself out of a winter storm that just wouldn't quick.

Until now.

The winter storm system that pelted the east coast this week is expected to taper off on Friday.

That should bring some relief to winter-weary residents and travelers.

And drivers tired of the slick roads.

SOUNDBITE: DRIVER RYAN EISELSTEIN SAYING:

"I've seen lots of near misses quickly going from clear roads to ice and snow."

From the Carolinas to Maine, fierce winds and heavy snow created thousands of flight cancelations and closed schools from D.C. to Connecticut

Some areas saw up to 18 inches of snow.

At least 15 deaths were blamed on the weather in the south, parts of which had widespread power outages.

North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory updating residents on the storm on Friday.

SOUNDBITE: North Carolina Governor Pat McCro