New York: City officials announced sweeping restrictions as heavy snowfall and fierce winds swept across the region, dramatically reducing visibility and blanketing streets, buildings and iconic landmarks in thick layers of snow.

The National Weather Service warned that the storm could dump up to 60 centimeters of snow in some areas, describing travel conditions as “extremely dangerous.” Forecasters also cautioned that strong winds combined with heavy snowfall could trigger widespread power outages.

A state of emergency has come into effect in New York, leading to the closure of streets, highways and bridges to cars, trucks and bicycles. Residents have been urged to remain indoors and avoid all non-essential travel as crews work to manage the unfolding situation.

The impact of the storm extends beyond New York. Neighboring New Jersey has also declared a state of emergency, while the city of Boston has shut down schools and municipal offices in anticipation of worsening conditions.