Western New York is grappling with a severe lake effect snowstorm that has dumped multiple feet of snow in some areas, causing widespread travel disruptions, including the closure of a major stretch of the New York State Thruway.

After an unusually mild fall, as much as 2 to 3 feet (0.6 to 0.9 meters) of snow were possible along Lake Erie and south of Buffalo from lake-effect bands notorious for pummeling

This week's weather in the Empire State has brought cold temperatures and winter advisories with a lake effect snow warning.

More than a foot of snow could accumulate in northern New England, hampering drivers in a record-breaking year for Thanksgiving travel.