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 an updated winter weather advisory at 3:40 a.m. EST on Thursday valid from 1 p.m. EST until Friday 7 a.m. EST for Alger, Luce and Schoolcraft counties.

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.

A winter storm was sweeping across a large portion of the US on Thursday, bringing snow, ice and rain to several states in the Midwest and Northeast.

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.

Ice & rain will end by late morning. Two more winter storms may bring snow and ice Saturday and early next week.

A winter weather advisory was issued by the National Weather Service on Thursday at 4:35 a.m. valid from 7 p.m. until Friday 4 p.m. for Southern Blue Mountains of 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.