East Coast hunkers down for major winter storm

The East Coast is bracing for a massive winter storm racing up from Florida that could bring hurricane-force winds to an area already struggling with record-breaking cold. Officials in New England issued blizzard warnings and states of emergency ahead of a predicted 18-inch snowfall. The storm has prompted flight cancellations, as well as school and road closures. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo told state residents to prepare for an “ugly, long commute.” Forecasters warn the strong winds, up to 60 mph, could down trees and power lines, stranding customers without heat amid plunging temperatures. The National Weather Service has issued blizzard warnings in parts of Delaware, Virginia, and Maryland; coastal New Jersey; eastern Long Island, N.Y.; and coastal eastern New England. To compound the misery, a frigid cold front will move into the area after the storm, ushering in record-breaking temperatures.