Storm poised to threaten holiday travel as it heads east; Midwest and West thaw out

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. - A winter storm that hit parts of Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas was expected to be worse, but with temperatures creeping above freezing the outcome was less dramatic than forecasters had feared.

Still, the severe weather could ramp back up Tuesday as it sweeps toward the East Coast, where it is poised to threaten plans for those travelling during a long holiday weekend.

The storm started in the West and as of Monday was blamed for at least 11 deaths. It limped across Arkansas with a smattering of snow, sleet and freezing rain.

Meteorologists say it arrived in Arkansas a bit later than expected Monday and temperatures were able to creep up a bit. As it continues east, heavy rains and strong winds could impact airports up and down the coast.