joining us live from accu-weather. in new york city, we're watching the snow pile up outside. you can see it live. look at the upper west side. folks are still getting around on. long island, residents are dealing with an added problem. a main thoroughfare, the long island expressway is shutting down. wabc has more from long island as they started shutting down this very busy thoroughfare. >> reporter: at times the mighty long island expressway looked like a back road in fargo, north dakota. the storm intensified at 8:00, and drivers struggled in the blowing, drifting snow that kept on coming. >> it's a mess. they're doing not too bad with the roads on the main roads. but the side roads are horrible. >> i'm headed to work. i work overnight. i tried to leave a little early so i can get there on time. i made sure i took my time. they're out cleaning the roads. it's just -- just take your time and leave early. >> reporter: the largest plows in the state's arsenal cut a