Rhode Island – A brittle, clear dawn stretches across Providence as cold air drifts over damp sidewalks and quiet early traffic. The region wakes under a sharp November chill, and a deeper cold snap Tuesday could slow early Thanksgiving travel prep. Drivers heading toward I-95, Route 146, or the Washington Bridge should allow extra windshield-scraping time and plan for a stiff west breeze through the morning.
According to the National Weather Service Norton office, winds stay brisk today and funnel colder air across Providence, Cranston, and Warwick. Sunshine helps by midday, yet shaded neighborhoods and coastal pockets cling to the brisk feel. Residents completing leaf cleanup or early holiday decorating should secure loose items and bundle against gusts that may still reach 30 mph.
According to meteorologists, the coldest stretch arrives Tuesday with lows falling into the upper 20s. This freeze risk marks another early sign of the winter transition that often precedes more frequent snow chances before Thanksgiving. Models hint at quiet skies Tuesday, though the warm-to-cold transitions of recent days suggest future chances for a quick rain-snow mix later in the week.
According to regional guidance, Wednesday offers a bright, calmer break. Milder air should support early travel, school drop-offs, and outdoor lunch hours across downtown and the suburbs. Attention then shifts to Friday as a developing system brings widespread rain and at least a limited snow chance in northern Rhode Island and interior Massachusetts. Travel times may stretch Friday morning and again during the evening commute as holiday travel ramps up.
Five-Day Forecast for Providence, RI:
Mon: 42/31 – Mostly sunny; brisk west winds.
Tue: 46/28 – Mostly clear; sharp freeze early.
Wed: 46/28 – Sunny; calmer and milder for travel.
Thu: 46/33 – Partly sunny; quiet late-fall feel.
Fri: 53/42 – Rain likely; brief snow chance north.
