Weather
Rhode Island Fire Weather Alert Today: Risk Rises 11 AM–6 PM Oct 31
PROVIDENCE, RI – Residents across Rhode Island and portions of southern New England are being urged to use extra caution Friday as dry vegetation, gusty winds and falling humidity create conditions th
By Rachel Monroe · 2026-10-30T08:46:10.153Z
PROVIDENCE, RI – Residents across Rhode Island and portions of southern New England are being urged to use extra caution Friday as dry vegetation, gusty winds and falling humidity create conditions that could allow outdoor fires to spread rapidly.
According to the National Weather Service in Boston/Norton, a Special Weather Statement issued Thursday afternoon identifies an elevated risk of fire spread between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30.
The statement covers much of Rhode Island, including Providence, Warwick, Cranston, Newport, Bristol and surrounding communities, along with portions of Massachusetts and Connecticut.
Strong Winds Could Increase Fire Spread
Forecasters expect northwest wind gusts reaching 25 to 35 mph across southern New England, combined with minimum relative humidity values near 40%.
Dry fuels, including fallen leaves and other vegetation, could allow fires to spread more quickly if an ignition occurs.
The National Weather Service indicates the lowest humidity and strongest wind gusts are expected from late morning through midafternoon Friday.
Residents are advised to use extra caution when operating machinery, handling matches or disposing of cigarette butts.
The statement specifically emphasizes ensuring potential ignition sources are properly extinguished.
Colder Weather Arrives This Weekend
Friday's Providence forecast calls for temperatures reaching approximately 70 degrees, with skies gradually becoming sunny and local wind gusts potentially reaching 23 mph.
Friday night will bring clear skies and temperatures falling to around 40 degrees.
Saturday will be sunny but considerably cooler, with highs near 57 degrees.
By Saturday night, temperatures could fall to approximately 31 degrees, bringing near freezing or below freezing conditions to the Providence forecast area.
Sunday will rebound to around 61 degrees before temperatures climb toward 67 degrees Monday and Tuesday.
Residents should remain cautious with outdoor ignition sources during Friday's elevated fire risk period and monitor National Weather Service updates for changing conditions.