New York Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a 'state of emergency Wednesday night ahead of a major snowstorm expected to hit Thursday morning and continue throughout the weekend in Buffalo and its surrounding areas.

Hochul said in a tweet that "emergency assets" will be deployed before the storm begins, and that her office will be in "constant contact" with local officials. She urged New York residents to "remain vigilant" and avoid "unnecessary travel."

Up to four feet of snow is expected in the region. These conditions are expected to continue until late Saturday when weather forecasts predict the storm will slow down to a light dusting of snow.

The New York State Department of Transportation and the Department of Homeland Security plans to help with cleanup efforts after the bulk of the storm passes on Sunday.

Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz said at a press conference Wednesday that the storm would not be the biggest storm the county has ever faced, but that it would be "a doozy of a storm" and urges residents to make sure their cars are parked on the "right side of the street."

Storm New York