A powerful winter storm sweeping through the northeastern United States has led to the cancellation of more than 5,000 flights, creating widespread travel disruptions and prompting emergency measures across several states.

According to flight tracking platform FlightAware, a total of 5,326 flights within, into, or out of the United States were cancelled by 08:45 GMT (03:45 ET) on Monday.

States including Massachusetts, Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, and Rhode Island declared states of emergency as heavy snowfall and strong winds intensified conditions across the region.

Authorities in New York City announced the closure of public schools on Monday — marking the first blizzard warning for the city in nearly a decade. Officials confirmed that 13 school buildings would remain open as warming centres to support residents affected by the extreme weather.

Closures were also reported in parts of Pennsylvania and surrounding states, while in Washington DC, Mayor Muriel Bowser confirmed that public schools would operate on a two-hour delayed schedule.

The storm’s impact extended beyond the United States. Several transatlantic flights from the UK were cancelled, including departures from Heathrow Airport to major US cities such as Boston, Philadelphia, and New York. Flights from Manchester and Edinburgh to New York were also cancelled, alongside some services between the US and Dublin Airport due to adverse weather.

The blizzard has already delivered up to 18 inches (45cm) of snow in eastern Pennsylvania, with forecasts suggesting totals could reach as much as 2 feet (60cm) in some areas before conditions ease Monday night.

Wind gusts of up to 70mph are expected to create dangerous snow drifts and could bring down trees and power lines, increasing the risk of outages.

The National Weather Service, part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, has issued winter storm and blizzard warnings affecting tens of millions of residents across the region.

A blizzard warning is triggered when sustained winds or frequent gusts exceed 35mph (56km/h), accompanied by significant falling or blowing snow for at least three hours — conditions now being experienced across large parts of the northeast.

The storm is expected to move into maritime Canada by Monday night, while another system — known as an Alberta clipper — could bring additional snowfall to the region later in the week.

Search efforts and inquiries remain ongoing after Prince Andrew was released under investigation following a day spent in police custody.

More than 19 hours after he was photographed reclining in the back seat of a vehicle upon release, the King’s younger brother remains at the centre of an active inquiry. The 66-year-old spent approximately 11 hours in custody on his birthday after being arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office.

The development marked the first arrest of a senior royal in modern history.

Following his release, Andrew departed Aylsham Police Station after a lengthy period that involved hours of transport and waiting.

Although no charges have been filed, Andrew has been released under investigation — meaning he is free to resume daily activities for now, but remains subject to further questioning as inquiries progress.

Authorities continue to examine matters linked to properties associated with the Duke, including locations connected to the Sandringham Estate.

According to royal correspondent Helena Wilkinson, Andrew’s legal situation remains unresolved, and he may be required to return for additional interviews as the investigation develops.

Authorities have confirmed that Prince Andrew was arrested earlier today on suspicion of misconduct in public office, marking a significant development that is now set to move through the formal legal system.

The arrest took place at a residence on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk at approximately 08:00 this morning. Police have since continued investigative searches at that property, as well as at his former home located within Windsor Great Park.

In recent weeks, Andrew had relocated from Windsor to establish a temporary base at Sandringham while renovation work progresses on his future long-term residence at nearby Marsh Farm.

The Sandringham Estate, originally acquired in 1862 as a private retreat for the future Edward VII when he was Albert, Prince of Wales, has long remained a cherished country residence passed from monarch to monarch. It continues to serve as a traditional gathering place for the Royal Family, particularly during the Christmas period.

It is understood Andrew has been staying at Wood Farm, a secluded house near the village of Wolferton. The residence holds personal significance, having been chosen by his father, Prince Philip, as his primary home following retirement from public duties in 2017.

Today, Sandringham has seen heightened police presence as the investigation proceeds.

Meanwhile, King Charles III continued with his scheduled public engagements in London, where he was greeted by both questions and expressions of public support upon arrival.

Maintaining continuity and stability, the King chose—like the Queen earlier—to proceed with previously planned duties. In a statement, he reaffirmed confidence in due process, noting that “the law must take its course.”

It has also been confirmed that neither the King nor Buckingham Palace were informed in advance of the arrest, underscoring the independence of the legal process now underway.