Rhode Island – Snowflakes drift through gray skies across Providence this MLK Day, clinging to windshields and quiet side streets as winter tightens its grip. Roads look slushy at first glance, but untreated surfaces quickly turn slick as temperatures hover near freezing. Morning travel feels slow and deliberate, especially near bridges and coastal routes.
According to the National Weather Service in Boston, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect through early morning for southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Additional snowfall totals range from 2 to 5 inches, enough to coat roadways and reduce visibility at times. Snow showers continue through the morning hours before tapering late morning to midday.
Even modest accumulation is creating outsized impacts. Snow-covered roads and compacted slush are causing slippery conditions along I-95, Route 6, and neighborhood streets. Gusty winds later today may help dry some pavement, but colder air moves in quickly after sunset. That sets the stage for flash freezing where snow melts during the afternoon.
By tonight, temperatures fall into the teens, locking in icy patches for the Tuesday morning commute. Sunshine returns Tuesday, though highs remain in the low to mid-20s. A brief warm-up follows midweek, with highs climbing into the 30s and near 40 by Thursday. Meteorologists are now tracking another weak disturbance that could bring spotty snow showers Wednesday night.
Looking farther out, NOAA’s 6–10 day outlook favors below-normal temperatures across New England, keeping winter patterns active into late January. Additional advisories are possible if moisture returns while cold air remains in place.
Drivers should slow down this morning, leave extra distance, and use caution on ramps and overpasses. Walking surfaces may also be icy in shaded areas.
How are road conditions where you are right now?
Five-Day Outlook for Providence, RI
- Today (MLK Day): Snow showers, high near 35.
- Tonight: Mostly clear, colder, low near 16.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 24.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 34.
- Thursday: Partly sunny, milder, high near 40.
