Rhode Island – Cold air settles in tightly this morning, frosting rooftops and stiffening fingers across the state. The quiet start to winter won’t last. A developing system is lining up a messy mix that could complicate travel as Christmas Eve approaches.
Temperatures early Monday sit in the 20s, with bright sun offering limited relief. Highs climb into the low 30s, keeping pavement dry for now. According to the National Weather Service, clouds increase later today as moisture advances from the west. Snow may develop Tuesday morning, especially inland, before changing character through the day.
By Tuesday afternoon, warmer air nudges in aloft while surface temperatures hover near freezing. Snow is expected to mix with rain, particularly around Providence and coastal Rhode Island. Accumulations look light, generally under an inch, but timing matters. Even brief snowfall can coat roads during colder periods.
Drivers should stay alert Tuesday into Tuesday night. Wet pavement may freeze quickly once temperatures dip back toward the upper 20s. Bridges, ramps, and untreated side streets could turn slick with little warning. This raises concerns for Christmas travel, especially during evening hours.
Wednesday trends calmer but still cold. Skies partially clear, and highs reach near 40. While snowfall tapers off, leftover moisture and melting snow may refreeze after sunset. That keeps black ice risks elevated through Christmas Eve morning.
This pattern signals winter settling in, even without a major storm. Small changes in temperature could quickly shift impacts. Travelers should build extra time into plans and monitor updates closely. Heading out Tuesday or Wednesday? What are conditions like in your neighborhood?
Five-Day Outlook for Providence, RI
- Monday: Sunny and cold, high near 33.
- Tuesday: Snow mixing with rain, light accumulation possible, high near 35.
- Wednesday (Christmas Eve): Partly sunny and cold, high near 40.
- Christmas Day: Mostly cloudy, seasonable, high near 41.
- Thursday: Cloudy and colder, high near 32.
