Long Islanders are ramping up their preparations today ahead of what is expected to be the largest snowstorm to hit our area in years.

Hardware stores, grocery stores and gas stations are expected to be packed with shoppers throughout the day and into the weekend.

Some stores have already reported low stock on certain items like ice melt, shovels, brushes and hand warmers.

The owner of Brinkmann's said its Sayville location is receiving two emergency shipments of ice melt and a trailer-load of snow throwers. Hank Brinkmann told News 12 the smaller shops like his had the chance to pivot and stock up on items quicker than the big box stores.