Providence, RI – The early-morning calm across southern New England won’t last long. Clouds are thickening fast, and by midday, wet leaves will be plastered to the streets as a strengthening fall storm sweeps in from the west. Rain, gusty winds, and dropping temperatures will dominate the day — a reminder that November’s transition toward winter has begun in earnest.
According to the National Weather Service in Boston/Norton, a High Wind Watch is in effect from Wednesday evening through Thursday morning across much of Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and northern Connecticut. West winds of 25 to 35 mph, with gusts approaching 60 mph, could topple small trees and knock out power in exposed areas. The strongest winds are expected near the coast and higher terrain west of I-95. Travel may become difficult for trucks and high-profile vehicles during the afternoon commute.
Showers and isolated rumbles of thunder will taper later tonight as cooler, drier air arrives from the northwest. Thursday will bring sunshine but brisk northwest winds, keeping highs in the low 50s. Friday looks calm and seasonable — a brief window for outdoor cleanup before another round of rain arrives Saturday.
By late Sunday, temperatures will slip into the 30s inland, a prelude to the first widespread cold snap expected across New England by Veterans Day. Some models even suggest the first chance for a light mix of rain and wet flakes across northern Massachusetts early next week. For now, residents should brace for today’s gusty punch — and keep an eye toward what could be a chilly Thanksgiving stretch ahead.
Five-Day Forecast for Providence, RI:
Wed: 59/43 – Showers likely; gusts up to 60 mph.
Thu: 52/30 – Sunny, breezy; cooler air returns.
Fri: 57/50 – Partly sunny; pleasant fall day.
Sat: 64/43 – Rain likely; breezy at times.
Sun: 60/41 – Chance of showers; colder trend next week.
