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Obama grounded as snowstorm batters US

A massive snowstorm hit the United States east coast, with upto 12 inches of snow expected in New York. Hundreds of flights were cancelled and schools closed following the wintry weather.

New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg declared a state of emergency on Wednesday, urging New Yorkers to stay off the roads and suspending parking regulations and rubbish collection.

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Obama grounded as snowstorm batters US

The snowstorm put a crimp on the travel plans of thousands of passengers, including US President Barack Obama. Heavy snow and icy roads created hazardous conditions, making Obama return to the White House from a trip to Wisconsin. He had to use a motorcade -- instead of his helicopter -- to get from Andrews Air Force Base to the White House.

Hundreds of flights were cancelled late on Wednesday -- with more cancellations expected on Thursday -- as heavy snow forced Washington's airports, Dulles International and Reagan National, to close their runways for several hours.

Obama grounded as snowstorm batters US

Snow began falling on Long Island, east of New York City, early on Wednesday morning, and roads were quickly blanketed.

Trying to prevent a repeat of the problems associated with the late December blizzard, when streets went unplowed for days, New York City sent out more than 2,000 salt spreaders, snow plows and other vehicles to clear the streets. 

Obama grounded as snowstorm batters US

As the snowstorm walloped the Washington-to-Boston corridor, the National Weather Service warned of "severe winter weather conditions." Wet and heavy snow caused thousands of power outages in the Washington area, as well as in other cities.

"Only travel in an emergency," the warning stated. "If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency."

Obama grounded as snowstorm batters US

Snow created treacherous road conditions that caused several cars to skid off the road or become stuck in the snow. While reports of minor accidents came in, there were no major causalties.