"A massive winter storm that has slammed the Midwest was bearing down on New York City and much of the Northeast Thursday, packing heavy snow, strong winds and frigid temperatures."

"Snow began falling overnight in parts of New England and New York, but the real brunt of the storm wasn't expected to hit until later Thursday.

The National Weather Service placed the entire New York City area under a winter storm watch for Thursday and Friday. A winter storm watch means there is potential for significant snow accumulations that may affect travel."

Doug Stanglin and Doyle Rice report for USA TODAY January 2, 2014. [2]

SEE ALSO:

"Blizzard to Reach From NYC to Boston Thursday Night" (AccuWeather) [3]

"Powerful Storm Looms for Midwest, Northeast, Forecasters Say" (Reuters) [4]