Gov. Patrick Requests People to Stay Off Eastern Mass. Roads

(NECN) - Mass. Gov. Deval Patrick held a press conference Saturday to warn residents of expected weather conditions.

"We're expecting heavy snow in Eastern Massachusetts at a rate, at its height, of three to four inches per hour," said Patrick, who added that heavy winds would also be in play.

Patrick advised residents to be safe and not to drive after 5 p.m. Saturday.

"Under these conditions, it really isn't possible for us to keep the roads clear and safe, given the rate of snowfall, so we are asking people to stay off the roads from 5 o'clock this afternoon until 5 o'clock tomorrow morning."

The governor explained that any points east of Worcester County will be affected.

"For people who have to travel, if you have access to [MBTA lines], that's the best way to get around. The T will operate its normal weekend schedule," he said. "For those who have to be on the roads, please keep your distance from plows."

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