MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Gov. Bill Lee and the state emergency agency were in Memphis addressing residents Wednesday ahead of the impending winter storm. Officials say it's time to watch the forecast closely, as numbers start to finalize on the snow we can expect to see on the roads. "We know how it works, we know how challenging this is, but we are prepared for what's coming,” Lee said. Winter storm latest: Heavy snow expected Thursday into Friday Lee says the state is ready for the winter storm. "The National Weather service in Memphis and in Nashville have both issued Winter Storm warnings, so for Memphis they will start tomorrow,” said Patrick Sheehan, Director of TEMA. The Tennessee DEmergency Management Agency says no matter what part of the state you are in, expect at least 2 inches of snow. "Right now we're hoping folks are paying attention to the forecast and if you don’t have to be out and about in the snowfall we encourage you not to be," Sheehan said. Some parts of the are could see 5 to 7 inches of snow. A lot of that snow could stick around for a day or two, TEMA said. "We do expect a prolonged cold period and so while we will see some warming coming on Sunday and Monday, some melt. Temperatures are forecasted again to drop and stay below freezing for the good part of next week, so we're mindful of that,” Sheehan said.  Which is why many Memphians were seen buying groceries ahead of the storm. Good advice, says TEMA, but it’s also warning folks to remain patient when gathering resources. "There is no reason to panic, we have the luxury of time," Sheehan said. The Tennessee Department of Transportation is currently pre-treating roads with salt and sand and brine to avoid a large snow accumulation. For drivers, officials say be careful and allow extra space between vehicles. "Give yourself a lot more time as well, so when conditions are bad, you need to give yourself more time to accelerate, more time to slow down and brake and take your curves a little slower," Sheehan said.