Gov. Patrick: Stay off roads after noon

BOSTON (WWLP) - Governor Deval Patrick says that workers ought to work from home if possible on Friday, as a major winter storm is headed into New England.

Speaking during a Thursday evening briefing at the State House, Patrick said that heavy snow and possible gale-force winds will make safe travel nearly impossible. Therefore, people should stay off the roads after noon on Friday.

He has ordered all non-emergency state workers to stay home, and is encouraging all school districts in the state to cancel classes.

In the event that there are power outages, Patrick said that power restoration efforts will not begin until after the storm has passed. Be sure to ensure that you have sufficient supplies, and put gas in your car, as gas stations may be impacted by outages.