Rhode Island – Cold air hangs tight this morning, and pavement stays dry for now, but change is already on the way. Clouds thicken through the day as a fast-moving winter system closes in, setting up slippery travel later today and tonight.
According to the National Weather Service, Providence climbs to around 34 degrees this afternoon before precipitation develops. Snow begins first, then mixes with freezing rain this evening as temperatures hover near 25 degrees. Light accumulations are expected, with around an inch of snow possible, but ice will be the bigger concern for drivers.
Conditions deteriorate quickly after sunset. Slushy roads and icy patches are expected on I-95, Route 6, and neighborhood streets across Providence, Pawtucket, Warwick, and nearby southeastern Massachusetts communities, including Norton and Attleboro. Visibility may briefly drop during heavier bursts of snow, especially near the coast.
By Wednesday, sunshine returns and temperatures rebound into the mid-30s. Snow and ice melt during the day, leaving wet pavement behind. That sets the stage for flash freezing Wednesday night as temperatures drop back into the teens, refreezing runoff on untreated roads, bridges, and parking lots.
Thursday and Friday stay quiet and seasonably cold, with highs near 34 and cold nights in the teens. Attention then shifts toward Valentine’s Day weekend. Saturday looks dry with highs near 36, while Sunday brings another chance for snow late in the day, keeping winter hazards in play.
Looking ahead, NOAA’s 6–10 day outlook shows above-normal temperatures building late next week across southern New England. Even with a warming trend, frozen ground and lingering snowpack can still support quick-hitting winter systems.
Plan extra time for evening travel, slow down on slushy roads, and stay alert for icy spots after dark. Are roads slick where you are? Share what you’re seeing.
Five-Day Outlook for Providence
• Today: Snow and freezing rain late, high near 34
• Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 36
• Thursday: Sunny, high near 34
• Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 34
• Saturday: Sunny, high near 36
