PROVIDENCE, RI – Dark clouds roll off the bay this morning, and wind-driven rain splashes across downtown streets as early commuters navigate slick roads. Seawater laps at low-lying docks, and storm drains bubble with runoff as high tide pushes toward the coast. For now, Rhode Island sits under a Coastal Flood Advisory through late morning, the latest sign of an active, unsettled fall pattern taking shape.
According to the National Weather Service in Boston/Norton, tides up to a half foot above normal could flood shore roads and parking areas around Narragansett Bay, Bristol, and Newport through 11 a.m. Gusty southeast winds near 30 mph will add to the wave action. Residents near flood-prone zones should avoid driving through ponded water and secure items that could wash away.
Rain will taper from west to east this afternoon as a cold front crosses southern New England. Behind it comes clearer, drier air and a steady cooling trend. Tuesday brings full sunshine with highs in the low 60s, perfect for cleanup along coastal neighborhoods. However, another round of showers arrives late Tuesday night into Wednesday, followed by a push of brisk, crisp air.
By Thursday and Friday, skies turn bright but chilly with highs near 58 and lows dipping into the upper 30s inland—early hints of the first fall freeze appearing north of Providence.
After this brief stormy stretch, the weekend looks calm and seasonal—ideal for leaf-peeping drives, pumpkin picking, or early Halloween decorating across Rhode Island’s back roads.
Five-Day Forecast for Providence, RI:
Mon: 66/46 – Heavy rain early; coastal flooding near high tide, clearing late.
Tue: 64/52 – Sunny and breezy; calmer seas and drier air.
Wed: 65/44 – Showers early, turning cooler; brisk northwest wind.
Thu: 59/41 – Mostly sunny; crisp, early signs of fall freeze inland.
Fri: 57/38 – Clear and cool; ideal late-fall feel heading into the weekend.
