Parts of US shut down amid forecasts of record-breaking snow storms

Storm system expected to affect about 43 million people, first in the northern US plains and then on the east coast later this week

States in the northern US plains were largely shutting down ahead of a massive winter storm that could dump up to 2ft of snow in some areas, accompanied by strong winds and dangerous cold.

Schools throughout the Dakotas, Minnesota and Wisconsin were called off for Wednesday. Offices closed and so did the Minnesota legislature. Emergency management leaders warned people to stay off the roads or face potential “whiteout” conditions.