Officials Islandwide are updating and preparing residents for a post-Christmas snowstorm that could up to eight inches of snow to the region. The storm is expected to start mid-afternoon Friday and end Saturday morning.

Regularly scheduled Long Island Rail Road service is planned for the weekend, MTA officials said Friday.

Crew will de-ice station walkways and platforms and run de-icing trains to keep third rails clear of snow and ice.

Natural gas burners and electrical heating elements will be used to prevent track switches from freezing. Waiting rooms at stations will be open during the storm.

PSEG said they are ready to respond to any power outages the storm may bring. "We have performed system, and logistics checks to ensure any customers who may be effected will have their power restored safely and as quickly as possible," said PSEG Long Island Emergency Preparedness Manager Larry Torres.

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman on Friday warned residents to avoid traveling during the storm unless absolutely necessary.

“Stay safe and stay home unless there is an emergency," Blakeman said. "If you must go out, drive carefully, slow down, and stay alert."

The Nassau County Office of Emergency Management is fully staffed and prepared to handle the snowfall, he said.

Residents are encouraged to assist local response efforts by shoveling around hydrants and moving cars into driveways so snowplows can clear streets.

Suffolk County Executive Edward Romaine delivered a news conference on the storm at noon.