Meanwhile, a swath of the Central and Eastern U.S. was under winter weather advisory, which the NWS issues "for any amount of freezing rain, or when 2 to 4 inches of snow (alone or in combination with sleet and freezing rain), is expected to cause a significant inconvenience, but not serious enough to warrant a warning."

Winter weather advisories and ice storm warnings are in effect for some areas. Here's difference in weather safety terms: warnings, watches, advisory

The National Weather Service issued a winter weather advisory at 4:35 a.m. on Thursday valid from 7 p.m. until Friday 4 p.m. for Northern Blue Mountains of Oregon.

Punxsutawney Phil made his annual prediction in Pennsylvania, and the groundhog saw a shadow, meaning the United States is set for six more weeks of winter.

The heaviest snow totals are expected in northern New Jersey, with lower snow totals forecast for Central Jersey.

On Thursday at 4:35 a.m. the National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning valid from 4 p.m. until Friday 1 p.m. for Central Oregon.

A winter storm warning has been issued for four states amid a snow storm that could bring up to 34 inches of snow to some areas on Thursday and Friday. Freezing temperatures may pose health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as infants and older adults.

On Thursday at 3:10 a.m. the NWS Eureka CA issued a winter storm warning valid from 10 a.m. until Friday 10 a.m. for Southern Trinity.

A brief break in the winter weather is ongoing this afternoon. Cloudy skies with highs in the 20s and low 30s is expected.Our next weather maker will arrive Fri