Washington, February 23 (QNA) - A winter storm that struck the US East Coast disrupted air travel and forced school closures, with the National Weather Service warning of heavy snowfall and strong winds.

New York City Mayor Zahran Mamdani announced at a press conference yesterday, "We expect between 33 and 43 centimeters of snow," warning that the snow could reach "50 centimeters or more," and urging all city residents to stay home.

US authorities stated that parts of the Northeast could see up to two feet of snow and winds reaching 70 miles per hour, increasing the risk of downed trees and power outages.

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey declared a state of emergency and ordered state employees to stay home. (QNA)