Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Thursday declared a state of emergency in New York and said he will close I-84 and the New York Thruway south of Albany from midnight until 5 a.m. Friday.



I-87 will be closed south of Exit 24. The governor will also close the Long Island Expressway ahead of the harsh snowstorm that is set to hit the Northeast.



A decision about reopening the highways will be made between 3:30-4 a.m., Cuomo said.



"Statewide state of emergency declared --> stay off the roads if you can #blizzard #StormWatch#NYS," Cuomo posted on his Twitter account.



Heavy snow is expected to start this evening.



Here is the full text of the governor's press release:



Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today declared a statewide state of emergency as a major winter storm has already started to bring heavy snow, sub-zero temperatures and high winds across New York State. A state of emergency mobilizes resources to local governments that otherwise are restricted to state use only and allows the Governor to suspend laws and regulations that would impede rapid response.



The Governor urged New Yorkers to avoid traveling and stay inside their homes until the worst of the storm has passed.



"As this winter storm unfolds, bringing heavy snow and high winds to many parts of the state, I strongly urge all New Yorkers to exercise caution, avoid travel, and stay indoors," Governor Cuomo said. "To ensure an effective and rapid response to this winter storm, I am declaring a statewide state of emergency, so resources can get to communities where they are needed as quickly as possible."



Click here to view a copy of the Governor's Executive Order. Click here to listen to audio from the Governor's latest winter storm briefing conference call.



Steps taken to ensure readiness include:



Roads and Bridges

The following actions will allow plow operations on critical roadways to be maintained overnight while ensuring driver safety: