Providence, Rhode Island – Rhode Island is included in a potential winter storm outlook for the upcoming weekend, as forecasters continue tracking a system that could bring moderate winter weather impacts to the East Coast, according to the NOAA Weather Prediction Center.
The outlook spans 7 p.m. Friday through 7 p.m. Monday, during which a developing storm system may produce accumulating snow and hazardous travel, particularly along the Interstate 95 corridor, impacting Providence and surrounding communities.
As of Monday evening, Rhode Island falls within a 20% probability area for at least moderate winter storm impacts. Officials emphasize that this percentage reflects potential, not a guaranteed storm, and that important details remain uncertain.
What forecasters know:
- Very cold air will remain firmly in place across southern New England, ensuring snow as the primary precipitation type if the system develops.
- A high-altitude disturbance is forecast to move out of Canada late Thursday, then strengthen as it tracks eastward by Saturday.
- This setup may lead to the development of a surface low-pressure system, capable of producing widespread precipitation along the East Coast.
- If the storm track aligns closer to the coast, Rhode Island could see accumulating snow, including coastal and inland areas.
What remains uncertain:
- The exact storm track, which will determine snowfall coverage and intensity
- How quickly the system intensifies or shifts offshore
- Whether impacts are brief or prolonged within the Friday–Monday window
Because temperatures will remain below freezing, even lighter snowfall could result in slick roads, reduced visibility, and lingering icy conditions, especially on I-95, I-195, Route 6, and Route 10.
Residents are urged to monitor forecast updates closely, particularly those planning weekend travel or outdoor activities, as confidence is expected to increase later this week.
