Early-Season Winter Storm Warning in Effect Through Sunday

The National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning for much of the state Saturday in preparation for an early-season winter storm that could dump as much as five inches to parts of the state. 

The advisory will go into effect as of 6 p.m. Saturday and remain in effect until 8 a.m. Sunday, and has been issued for portions of Norfolk County, including Dedham. 

"Wet snow and strong wind gusts will bring the potential for tree damage and scattered power outages," the NWS reported Saturday. "Untreated roadways may become snow covered and slippery." 

Rain will cover the region from southwest to northeast Saturday afternoon, and precipitation will gradually change over to heavy wet snow as colder air works into the area, according to the NWS.

Below are a number of storm safety tips and contact information to keep handy before and during the storm:

• Stay away from downed wires. Any downed wires should be considered live and reported to both police and NSTAR at 1-800-592-2000.  
• Be careful never to leave open flames unattended.
• Turn off major appliances and electronics during any power outages to guard against damage when the power comes back on.
• Leave one light switched on as a signal for when the power is restored.
• Surge protectors can protect sensitive equipment during an outage and when power is restored.
• Power outages should be reported directly to NSTAR at 800-592-2000 or online at nstar.com.
• For all emergencies, Dial 911.
• For non emergencies, contact the at 781-751-9300.
• For issues regarding plowing or downed tree limbs, contact the at 781-751-9350.