Rhode Island – The cold bites hard this morning as frost clings to parked cars and sidewalks shine under streetlights. Light snow develops later today, signaling a slippery start to the first full weekend of winter across the Providence area.
According to the National Weather Service, snow moves into Rhode Island later today with accumulations around 1 to 3 inches possible in and around Providence. Temperatures remain well below freezing, allowing snow to stick quickly to untreated roads, bridges, and walkways.
Snow becomes most noticeable by afternoon and through the evening. Travel along I-95, I-195, and Route 6 may slow as slush builds and visibility dips during steadier bursts. Drivers heading out for weekend errands or holiday travel should plan extra time and reduce speed.
Conditions improve briefly Saturday as clouds thin and sunshine returns. Even then, cold air lingers, and daytime melting may be limited. After sunset, refreezing becomes a concern, especially in shaded neighborhoods and parking lots.
The bigger travel challenge arrives Sunday night into Monday. Milder air pushes in, bringing a period of freezing rain before changing to plain rain. That transition increases the risk of black ice and slick roads, particularly late Sunday and early Monday.
Looking toward New Year’s week 2026, temperatures trend colder again. While no major snowstorm is signaled yet, repeated freeze-thaw cycles could keep roads tricky during early morning and evening travel windows.
Residents should keep winter gear handy, check road conditions before leaving home, and watch for updates as timing details sharpen. This is the kind of December pattern where small changes matter.
Heading out this weekend or into New Year’s week? Let us know how conditions look where you are.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Providence, RI
Today: Snow develops, highs near 24°F
Saturday: Mostly sunny, cold, highs near 29°F
Sunday: Partly sunny, highs near 38°F
Monday: Freezing rain then rain, highs near 47°F
Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, cooler, highs near 30°F
