Providence, RI – A chilly and unsettled pattern is setting up across Rhode Island from Nov. 29th through Dec. 5th, bringing increased chances for cold rain along the coast and pockets of mixed precipitation inland as early December begins.
According to NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, temperatures during this period are expected to trend below normal statewide, including coastal Providence, the East Bay, and inland communities such as Cranston, Warwick, and Smithfield. Overnight lows may fall near or below freezing in interior locations, increasing the risk of mixing or light snow during passing disturbances.
NOAA’s 8–14 Day outlook also signals above-normal precipitation across all of Rhode Island, suggesting multiple systems could pass through the region through the first week of December. While the overall pattern is not indicative of a single major storm, it strongly favors several rounds of cold rain, mixed precipitation, and localized travel disruptions.
Providence and coastal areas are most likely to see cold, steady rain, though a brief rain–snow mix cannot be ruled out during colder overnight periods. Inland and slightly higher-elevation areas — including western Kent County, northern Providence County, and the Scituate Reservoir region — have a slightly better chance at seeing sleet or wet snow, depending on storm timing.
Forecasters note that shifting temperatures and moisture levels may cause the rain–snow line to move frequently, producing intermittent slick spots on untreated secondary roads and early-morning commutes, particularly along I-295, Route 146, and rural western routes.
Residents across Rhode Island should stay tuned to daily forecast updates as the first week of December brings colder temperatures and repeated rounds of precipitation.
