Winter storm dumps heavy snow, treacherous ice on northeast US

A major winter storm is dumping heavy snow and treacherous ice on parts of the Northeast of the United States, and is set to bring the most snow to New York City in nearly four years.

New York State and New Jersey are under state of emergencies as heavy snow brought icy and slippery road conditions and greatly reduced visibility on Friday, making travel extremely dangerous.

The snow began reaching New York City around 17:00 Friday and will continue until Saturday.

New York City is forecast to get about seven inches of snow -- the most snow in nearly four years. Mayor Eric Adams called it a "significant snow event".

Relevant state governments encouraged residents to monitor local forecasts and avoid unnecessary travel.

The storm is also impacting flights.

More than 5,500 flights traveling into, within or departing the United States on Friday were delayed as of 15:50, according to FlightAware, which tracks real-time flight delays and cancellations.

Nearly 1,200 U.S. flights scheduled for Friday were canceled, according to FlightAware.

Winter storm dumps heavy snow, treacherous ice on northeast US

Winter storm dumps heavy snow, treacherous ice on northeast US

Winter storm dumps heavy snow, treacherous ice on northeast US

Winter storm dumps heavy snow, treacherous ice on northeast US

Winter storm dumps heavy snow, treacherous ice on northeast US

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya described the current state of bilateral relations with China as entering a "stronger chapter" grounded in mutual respect, commitment and trust.

In an interview with China Media Group (CMG) aired on Friday, Amarasuriya emphasized the enduring friendship between the two countries and expressed confidence that the relationship is poised for even greater stability.

"We've had a long standing relationship. And this is a new chapter. And I think a stronger chapter, because I only see the relationship getting stronger, becoming stronger, because the thinking process is aligned, the vision is more aligned, and the strategies are more aligned. So, this relationship, I am confident, will continue to be an example of what a good, strong bilateral relationship [is] -- one that is based on mutual respect and commitment and trust, and what it can deliver for both countries," she said.

Her remarks build on assurances made during her October 2025 visit to Beijing, when President Xi Jinping underscored the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and pledged support for Sri Lanka’s sovereignty and independence. At that time, both sides highlighted the relationship as a model of friendly ties and mutually beneficial cooperation, with Sri Lanka reaffirming its adherence to the one-China principle.

While the earlier discussions centered on Belt and Road projects and China’s global initiatives, Amarasuriya’s latest comments mark a shift toward strategic alignment, stressing shared vision and coordinated pathways.

Sri Lanka PM highlights stronger chapter in China ties built on trust, shared vision