The first major winter storm of the season is bearing down on the area this weekend.  A winter storm watch is in effect for southeast Nebraska from this (Friday) evening through Saturday evening.
 The National Weather Service says the rain will gradually change over to snow across the area early Saturday morning, with snow expected through much of the day Saturday.  The heaviest snowfall is forecast to fall Saturday morning into the afternoon.
 Snow accumulation of four to seven inches is expected in southeast Nebraska, with higher amounts to the north along the Interstate 80 corridor.  However, several more inches of snow could fall if the changeover from rain starts earlier.
 The weather service cautions that travel could become difficult over the region Saturday morning.  The combination of snow and winds of 15-to-30 miles per hour will reduce visibilities to a half mile or less at times.