Rhode Island – Cold air grips Providence early this morning, with damp pavement, gray skies, and a sharp bite hinting at trouble ahead. While conditions look quiet now, a dangerous winter setup builds quickly later today, and travel impacts are likely by evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Boston, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from early evening through Wednesday morning. Freezing rain is expected to develop tonight, especially along and near the I-95 corridor. Light ice accumulations are possible across the metro area, with higher totals between one-tenth and two-tenths of an inch farther inland.
Temperatures hover near freezing today, then rise slowly toward the mid-30s. That narrow temperature window creates prime conditions for ice to glaze untreated roads. Bridges, overpasses, and elevated ramps will become slick first, even if rainfall appears light. Conditions could deteriorate quickly after sunset.
By Wednesday morning, freezing rain may transition to plain rain as temperatures climb toward 40. Even so, hazardous travel may linger during the morning commute. Crews may need time to treat icy surfaces, especially on secondary roads and sidewalks near schools and transit stops.
Thursday brings a break, with sunshine and calmer weather pushing highs into the mid-40s. That relief is brief. Rain chances return Friday and continue into the weekend, keeping roads wet and visibility reduced. While snow is not expected later, colder nights could allow leftover moisture to refreeze.
Meteorologists note this system is part of a broader wintry pattern impacting much of New England during the first full week of 2026. Small temperature shifts are making the difference between rain and ice, increasing uncertainty and risk.
Slow down tonight, avoid unnecessary travel during peak icing, and give road crews room to work. Are you seeing icy spots already? Share what conditions look like where you are.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Providence, RI
• Today: Cloudy, high near 36°F.
• Tonight: Freezing rain likely. Low near 33°F.
• Wednesday: Chance of rain early, then clearing. High near 40°F.
• Thursday: Sunny, high near 44°F.
• Friday: Rain likely. High near 51°F.
