Winter Storms Are Impacting Travelers in 19 States

— -- Winter is officially here to stay for many states across the nation.

Gusty winds, whiteout conditions and heavy snow are impacting thousands of commuters. Winter advisories have been issued for nearly 20 states.

The Great Lakes region, especially Michigan and New York, is experiencing heavy lake-effect snow that could lead to an accumulation of 2-3 feet.

A snow storm and cold temperatures in Michigan have caused roads to ice, resulting in multiple highway accidents Thursday morning.

At least two people were killed and others were injured following a 30-vehicle pileup on I-96 near Fowlerville, Michigan.

A video posted by the Michigan Department of Transportation shows the scene where a motorist lost control on a snowy highway. There were no reported injuries.

The first snow of the season fell in a few unlikely areas. A winter weather advisory was in effect Thursday morning in Midland and Odessa, Texas, with around an inch of snowfall.

Redding, California, was blanketed in snow overnight. Portland, Oregon, is also experiencing snow that is expected to continue into the night.