Raleigh, N.C. - According to the Associated Press, severe weather has claimed the lives of at least four people in two eastern states.

Travelers in North Carolina and Kentucky have been greatly affected by the winters season.  Reports show they have been experiencing snow, sleet and freezing rain.

"Hundreds of accidents have been reported, including four fatalities (3 in North Carolina and 1 in Kentucky)," the Associated Press said.  Also, schools have had to start later in the morning or cancel classes.

Thousands of people in North Carolina and in Virginia lost power.