Providence, RI – Holiday travel plans may need adjusting Friday as strong winds and rain sweep across Rhode Island and much of southern New England, creating hazardous driving conditions and the risk of isolated power outages.
According to the National Weather Service, a Wind Advisory remains in effect from 4 a.m. Friday through 1 a.m. Saturday for most of Rhode Island, eastern and central Massachusetts, and parts of Connecticut. South winds of 20 to 30 mph are expected, with gusts reaching 45 to 55 mph inland and up to 60 mph near the south coast and Block Island.
In Rhode Island, the strongest gusts could impact the morning commute on I-95, Route 4, and the Newport Pell Bridge. Gusty conditions may also develop across southeastern Massachusetts, including Cape Cod and the South Shore, where unsecured holiday decorations and trash bins could be blown around. Tree limbs may come down, and a few scattered power outages are possible.
Rain moves in overnight and continues through Friday, adding to travel concerns. Conditions improve late Friday night as winds slowly ease. Looking ahead, the pattern appears quieter by midweek, with Christmas Eve on Wednesday currently shaping up as calmer and seasonably cool for last-minute shopping and travel.
Warnings remain in effect into early Saturday, and additional advisories could be issued if winds strengthen further.
