Rhode Island wakes to crisp air, frosted windshields, and a sharp winter bite. Sidewalks feel stiff. The calm won’t last long. A fast-changing December weather pattern takes hold as the week moves forward.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures sit near 30 degrees early around Providence. Wind chills dip into the low 20s. Bridges and shaded roads may stay slick this morning. Drivers should slow down on I-95, I-195, and Route 6 during early travel.
Sunshine helps today rebound into the mid-40s. Thursday turns milder, with highs near 51 and light winds. To be fair, it will feel more like late fall for a few hours. That warmth sets the stage for rain and travel impacts.
Rain develops Thursday night and intensifies Friday morning. Periods of steady rain continue through Friday afternoon, with gusty winds reaching 30 mph. Wet pavement, ponding, and reduced visibility could slow travel across Providence and nearby coastal routes. Plan extra time if heading toward Boston or traveling south.
By Friday evening, colder air pushes back in. Temperatures drop toward the mid-20s late. Any lingering moisture may refreeze, raising black ice concerns into Saturday morning. Parking lots, ramps, and untreated side streets will freeze first.
This warm-to-cold swing signals an early winter transition. While snow is not expected locally through Sunday, models hint at colder air pressing east next week. With major winter storms impacting the Midwest, New England often follows with increasing winter chances.
Christmas travel plans should stay flexible. Saturday turns colder but mostly sunny. Sunday moderates slightly, though mornings remain frosty.
5-Day Providence Weather Outlook
• Today: Mostly sunny, high near 44°
• Thursday: Sunny, high near 51°
• Friday: Rain and breezy, high near 57°
• Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 41°
• Sunday: Partly sunny, high near 47°
