DEDHAM, Mass. - The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch for several regions in Massachusetts, as a significant snowstorm is expected to hit the state. Meteorologist Vicki Graf warns that the storm will bring heavy and wet snow, increasing the risk of power outages.

The winter storm watch, set to begin early Sunday morning, covers Northern Berkshire, Southern Berkshire, Western Franklin, Western Hampden, Western Hampshire, Central Middlesex County, Eastern Franklin, Southern Worcester, Western Essex, Northern Worcester, and Northwest Middlesex County. Residents in these areas should prepare for hazardous weather conditions.

Graf's Saturday morning forecast indicates that the storm will bring a mix of precipitation, depending on specific locations. In higher elevations across the interior, it will mostly be a snow event, with heavy accumulation. Snow maps shared by Graf show the potential for up to half a foot of snow in some parts of the Bay State.

"The worst of the storm is expected overnight Sunday into early Monday, when we anticipate the most accumulation and the strongest winds," Graf noted. She predicts that southeastern Massachusetts and the immediate coastline will experience one to three inches of snow, while the 128 and 495 corridors could see three to six inches. In higher elevations, such as mountainous areas, snowfall could reach six to nine inches or more.

There will likely be a transition from rain to snow during Sunday for regions south of the Massachusetts Turnpike and along the coastline. Graf advises residents in these areas to be prepared with shovels and plows, as the snow is expected to be heavy.

The storm is projected to move out of the region by Monday afternoon, followed by clear weather for the rest of the week. However, the public is urged to stay updated on weather advisories and exercise caution on the roads during and after the storm.

Remember to stay safe, stay indoors if possible, and check local news outlets for any updates or changes in the weather forecast.