Due to severe weather conditions from Winter Storm Juno, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo declared a state of emergency on Monday afternoon.
“This is a serious blizzard, and it should not be taken lightly,” said Cuomo at a press briefing.
He added that wind gusts can reach up to 55 mph, which makes snow clearing more difficult.
Because of the severe winds and snowfall, New York City, Long Island, Rockland County, and Westchester County will be in a state of emergency. One hundred sixty snow plows have been deployed from upstate counties to these areas to assist in snow clearing.
Several hundred National Guard soldiers will be stationed around New York City and Long Island.
Non-essential state employees will be released from work at 3 p.m.
Cuomo warned Monday commuters to return home as soon as possible.
“It’s not an evening to be out and about,” he said.
