Rhode Island — Moonlit streets look calm this morning, but the cold carries a warning. Breath hangs in the air, pavement feels stiff, and February is lining up another winter punch.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures hover near freezing today across Rhode Island and southeast Massachusetts, including Providence and Norton. Dry weather holds through Thursday, but colder air settles in and sets the stage for snow by late Friday.
Highs reach near 30 today with sunshine offering little warmth. Nights turn sharply colder, dropping into the teens. That daily melt-and-refreeze cycle raises early concerns for slick sidewalks and untreated roads after sunset.
By Friday evening, clouds thicken as a weak system approaches. Snow becomes likely late Friday night and continues into Saturday, with the highest chances focused from Providence north toward Norton and surrounding communities. Accumulations appear light to moderate, but timing matters. Snow arrives as temperatures sit well below freezing.
Drivers should plan ahead on I-95, Route 6, and local arterials Saturday morning. Snow-covered roads and reduced visibility could slow travel, especially during early errands and weekend events. Gusty northwest winds develop Saturday afternoon, blowing snow and lowering wind chills.
Saturday stays cold and unsettled. Highs struggle into the mid-20s while snow tapers later in the day. Any daytime melting will refreeze quickly after sunset, increasing the risk for black ice Saturday night.
Sunday turns brighter but colder. Wind chills remain biting during the morning, and leftover slick spots linger in shaded areas. Despite the cold weekend, change is brewing. Meteorologists are tracking a broader warming trend late next week. The 6–10 day outlook signals above-normal temperatures returning, hinting at a February thaw after this wintry stretch.
Heading out Friday night or Saturday? Plan extra time and watch for icy patches. How are conditions shaping up where you live?
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Providence, RI / Norton, MA
- Today: Sunny, high near 30°F
- Thursday: Sunny, high near 31°F
- Friday: Partly sunny, high near 30°F
- Saturday: Snow likely, windy, high near 26°F
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, cold, high near 18°F
