BOSTON, Mass. – A sharp fall chill grips eastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island early Friday as temperatures near freezing trigger the season’s first Frost Advisory. The National Weather Service warns that temperatures dipping to around 33°F could damage sensitive plants and mark the first widespread cold snap of October.
According to the National Weather Service in Boston/Norton, the advisory remains in effect until 9 a.m. Friday for communities including Quincy, Providence, Bristol, and Plymouth. Commuters on I-93 and the Massachusetts Turnpike may notice slick patches on bridges and overpasses at dawn. Residents are urged to cover tender plants, bring in potted flowers, and protect outdoor plumbing as a precaution.
Friday will rebound with bright sunshine and calmer winds, offering a welcome warm-up for late-week errands or fall park visits. However, the weekend turns unsettled. According to meteorologists at TF Green Airport in Warwick, clouds will increase Saturday with highs in the mid-60s before rain spreads in Sunday. Showers may become steady by Columbus Day, bringing a breezy, wet end to the long weekend.
Leaf-peepers and pumpkin patch visitors should plan early outdoor time Friday and Saturday before damp weather arrives. By midweek, the region trends cooler again, signaling a true autumn pattern settling across southern New England.
Five-Day Forecast for Providence, RI:
Fri: 61/45 – Sunny, calm winds; frost risk early morning.
Sat: 66/51 – Partly sunny; increasing clouds late.
Sun: 61/53 – Rain likely; breezy afternoon.
Mon: 62/54 – Rain continues; possible ponding on roads.
Tue: 59/40 – Showers early; cooler, clearing late.
