Around 3,000 flights have been cancelled in the US as a result of a severe winter storm that has hit the country’s east coast.
Weather experts are describing the storm as a ‘bomb cyclone’, meaning a rapid drop in atmospheric pressure has caused hurricane-like conditions.
Freezing cold winds of up to 60mph have been reported and at least 12 people have died.
The severe weather has led the Foreign Office to update its advice to UK travellers in, or heading to, the region.
The FCO updated its advice late on Thursday afternoon to say: "A powerful winter storm is currently affecting several states along the east coast of the USA; the resulting hazardous weather conditions have led to power outages and travel disruption in some areas, including delays and cancellations to flights.
"If you’re in the area or due to travel, you should monitor local media, follow the advice of the local authorities and check with your airline or transport provider before travelling to your point of departure."
Forecasters say New York City will get up to 10 inches of snow and, taking in the wind-chill factor, the weather will drop to -20C. A state of emergency has been declared in NYC and surrounding areas.
Blizzard-like conditions are set to hit a huge area of the east coast, from North Carolina to Maine, with New England expected to be one of the worst-hit areas. Boston is expected to get over 12 inches of snow.
The worst of the storm will be over by Saturday morning, but the cold weather will continue.
