Rhode Island feels the tension in the air as thick clouds lock over Providence and temperatures hover near 30 degrees. The wind is calm for now, but that calm will not last. Heavy snow is set to surge in later today, and conditions may turn dangerous fast.
According to the National Weather Service in Boston/Norton, a Blizzard Warning takes effect at 4 p.m. and runs until 7 a.m. Tuesday. Total snow accumulations between 1 and 2 feet are expected across eastern Massachusetts and all of Rhode Island. Wind gusts could reach 70 mph, creating whiteout conditions and near-zero visibility at times.
Snow becomes heavy tonight and continues into Monday, with blowing snow reducing visibility below a quarter mile. Travel along I-95, Route 6 and I-195 may become very difficult to impossible. Officials urge residents to delay travel and prepare for scattered power outages as strong winds weigh down tree limbs.
The Monday commute could be severely impacted. If temperatures briefly rise near freezing during the day, melting may occur. Any rapid drop Monday night could lead to flash freezing and icy patches.
By Tuesday, February 24th, sunshine returns with highs near 31. Another chance of rain or snow arrives Wednesday before a gradual warming trend builds late week. Highs climb toward 40 by Thursday and into the low 40s by Saturday, hinting at early spring warmth beyond this winter blast.
Five Day Outlook for Providence, Rhode Island:
Monday: Heavy snow and blowing snow, high 32.
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high 31.
Wednesday: Rain/snow likely, high 38.
Thursday: Mostly sunny, high 40.
Friday: Chance of rain/snow, high 40.
