Five major highways in northeast China's Heilongjiang Province were closed Tuesday following an overnight snowstorm.

The provincial meteorological station issued a red alert early Tuesday morning for continuing snowstorm, which says the snow would reach 15 millimeters in several cities.

The provincial capital Harbin was among the worst hit regions in the province.

"The snow on the ground is above my ankles. It is difficult even to walk in the downtown," said a Harbin resident surnamed Liu.

The municipal education committee issued an urgent notice on Tuesday morning ordering the closure of primary and middle schools for one day.