A massive winter storm that started in the west is slowly making its way east just in time to impact travel plans on one of the busiest travel days of the year.

The rough weather across New Mexico, Texas, and Oklahoma are being blamed for at least 12 deaths, most died in car accidents.

"It's dangerous, real dangerous right now. Accidents all over down here. People bumping into each other just from the snow, just can't stop I guess," said traveler Justin Duckett.

The storm is also affecting migrating animals. Care-takers are looking after some confused ducks who thought they were landing in water when they crashed into ice covered roads.