Rhode Island – Cold air presses hard across the Ocean State this morning, with Providence waking up near 11 degrees under clear skies. Side streets feel brittle, parked cars creak in the cold, and untreated pavement remains slick where moisture lingered overnight.
According to the National Weather Service, hazardous weather is limited early today, but confidence is growing in a colder and more active winter pattern developing into the weekend. Arctic air continues expanding across the eastern United States, while storm systems lining up to the west raise the risk for snow and icy conditions.
Today stays dry but cold, with clouds increasing by afternoon and highs reaching the upper 20s. Temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Any melting during daylight hours may refreeze tonight, increasing the risk of black ice on bridges, ramps, and coastal roadways, including I-95 and Route 6.
A brief break arrives Thursday with sunshine and highs climbing into the low 40s. That window closes fast. Cooler air returns Friday, holding highs near freezing. Winds pick up slightly, making it feel colder than the thermometer suggests.
By Saturday night, snow becomes increasingly likely across Providence and surrounding communities. Snow chances continue into Sunday, with light to moderate accumulations possible. Even modest snowfall could create travel headaches, especially with temperatures staying well below freezing and little opportunity for melting. Flash freezing remains a concern after sunset each day.
Looking ahead, the 6–10 day outlook favors continued below-normal temperatures across southern New England, with periodic chances for snow as systems track along the cold boundary. Additional weather alerts may be issued as confidence increases.
Residents should plan errands early, allow extra travel time this weekend, and keep winter gear handy.
Five-Day Outlook for Providence, RI
- Today: Increasing clouds, high near 28°F
- Tonight: Chance of rain or snow early, low near 26°F
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 42°F
- Friday: Partly sunny, high near 32°F
- Saturday: Cold, mostly sunny, high near 14°F
