The first snow of the new year has hit large parts of central and eastern China. In Henan Province, some primary and middle schools have suspended classes. CGTN's Xu Mengqi reports from Henan's capital Zhengzhou.

XU MENGQI ZHENGZHOU, HENAN PROVINCE "The heavy snowfall that covered parts of central and east China has gradually eased. Here in Henan's provincial capital of Zhengzhou, it's about minus 5 degrees Celsius, while the local meteorological authority has issued an alert for low temperatures and icy roads. Record-thick snowfall was observed across the province, and in some areas it exceeded more than 40 centimeters. City administration staff have been working overnight to remove ice and snow on the roads and at the airport. So far at least two runways are back in operation. But according to weather authorities, a second round of snow is expected, though this time it's said to be lighter. Authorities say they will be closely watching and will take precautions to minimize the impact on traffic, power supplies and agriculture facilities. Similar conditions have also triggered other central and eastern provinces in China to launch an emergency response to the severe weather. "