PROVIDENCE, R.I. — As heavy snow continues to fall across Rhode Island from downtown Providence near the State House to residential neighborhoods in Warwick, officials are urging residents to take important precautions before going to bed.
Forecasters warn snowfall totals could increase overnight, placing added stress on rooftops, blocking ventilation systems and raising the risk of isolated power outages. Travel conditions have worsened along Interstate 95 and Route 4, while neighborhood streets across Providence and Kent counties are quickly accumulating snow.
Emergency management officials say the overnight hours often bring the greatest risk, as temperatures drop and heating systems operate continuously.
Authorities recommend residents complete a brief home safety check before turning in.
Key safety steps Rhode Island residents should complete tonight:
- Clear exterior vents. Make sure furnace, boiler and dryer vents are not blocked by snow to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide buildup.
- Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Confirm devices are powered and functioning properly.
- Inspect space heaters and fireplaces. Keep heaters away from flammable materials and ensure fireplaces are properly ventilated.
- Monitor roof and ceiling conditions. Heavy snow can strain homes, particularly older structures in Providence and coastal properties in Warwick. Watch for sagging ceilings or unusual creaking sounds.
- Protect exposed pipes. Open cabinet doors beneath sinks along exterior walls to allow warmer air to circulate.
- Clear vehicle exhaust pipes. Before starting vehicles in the morning, remove snow from tailpipes to prevent dangerous fumes.
- Charge essential devices. Gusting winds overnight may cause scattered outages in some communities.
Communities from College Hill in Providence to neighborhoods near T.F. Green Airport in Warwick have reported steady snowfall, with plow crews working extended shifts. Officials caution that residential streets may not be fully cleared by morning.
Residents are also encouraged to check on elderly neighbors and those with limited mobility during prolonged snowfall.
While snowfall is expected to taper off tomorrow, authorities emphasize that the hours between midnight and early morning frequently present the highest risk for frozen pipes, heating-related hazards and structural strain.
Officials say taking a few minutes tonight to inspect homes could help prevent more serious issues by daybreak across Rhode Island.
