Providence, RI – Rhode Islanders should brace for a surge of summer heat and humidity building toward the Juneteenth holiday, with the potential for thunderstorms to follow. The most significant heat is expected to arrive Thursday, creating uncomfortable conditions across the state just as many are celebrating the holiday.
According to the National Weather Service, Thursday will start with patchy fog before 9 a.m. but will quickly turn mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 91 degrees. Gusty south winds could reach up to 21 mph. The heat index, which measures how hot it really feels, is predicted to climb as high as 97. These conditions can pose a health risk, and residents are advised to stay hydrated and seek shade, especially during the peak afternoon hours. A chance of showers and thunderstorms is expected to develop between 8 p.m. Thursday and 2 a.m. Friday, potentially impacting evening travel and outdoor activities.
The unsettled weather will give way to a pleasant end to the week. Friday will be mostly sunny with a more comfortable high near 82. This clear and sunny trend continues into the weekend. Saturday is expected to be mostly sunny with a high near 85, while Sunday brings more sunshine and a high of 88. Looking ahead to next week, the warmth continues with a partly sunny Monday and a high near 88, followed by a hot and sunny Tuesday reaching a high of 94. No further weather alerts are in effect, but residents should monitor for updates as the thunderstorm chances evolve.
Five-Day Forecast for Providence, RI:
SUNDAY: High 88°F. Mostly sunny.
WEDNESDAY: High 78°F. Showers likely, mainly after 2 p.m.
THURSDAY (Juneteenth): High 91°F. Mostly sunny and hot, with a chance of evening thunderstorms.
FRIDAY: High 82°F. Mostly sunny and less humid.
SATURDAY: High 85°F. Mostly sunny.
