Snowstorms sweep across northern China

People walk on a snow-covered street in Hohhot, capital of North China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Nov 22, 2015. [Photo/Xinhua]

A vast area of north China was hit by snowstorms on Sunday, disrupting traffic in Beijing, Tianjin and Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.

Six highways passing through the capital have been temporarily closed and traffic authorities are stepping up inspections.

Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region issued an alert calling for the maintenance of roads, railways and telecommunication facilities.

In Tianjin, all highways have been shut down and more than 20 flights have been delayed at Tianjin Binhai International Airport.

Bus companies in Tianjin said they added more capacity to cope with the city's transportation needs.