News Summary
Rhode Island is preparing for a severe coastal storm expected to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds from Sunday night into Monday morning. The National Weather Service has issued various weather warnings, including high wind and flood advisories, as the storm could deliver between 1-3 inches of rain and gusts up to 60 mph. Coastal flooding is a major concern, especially during high tide, with potential inundation in low-lying areas. Residents are advised to stay updated on weather conditions and exercise caution during this significant weather event.
Rhode Island is bracing for significant weather disruptions as a coastal storm approaches, set to deliver heavy rainfall and strong winds starting late Sunday night and continuing into Monday morning. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued multiple warnings across various regions, including storm, gale, coastal flood, high wind, and wind advisories, significantly impacting Southern New England.
The storm is predicted to bring between 1-3 inches of rain, predominantly affecting Rhode Island and eastern Massachusetts. Thunderstorms may also accompany the rainfall on Monday, adding to the potential hazards. Northeast winds are expected to intensify beginning around noon on Sunday, continuing through noon the following day.
A high wind warning is in effect for Block Island starting at 5 p.m. Sunday until 2 p.m. Monday, with predicted maximum gusts nearing 60 mph and steady winds ranging from 25 to 35 mph. Other coastal areas will experience strong gusts as well, with Westerly and Newport forecasted to have gusts up to 40 mph and 39 mph respectively. Providence is projected to see maximum wind gusts of approximately 30 mph.
Coastal flooding is a significant concern, particularly during high tide. A flood advisory is in place for Washington and Newport counties from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, with low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways expecting inundation of up to one foot above ground level. There could be flooding of parks, parking lots, and roads, leading to isolated road closures. The NWS advises drivers to refrain from traveling through standing water.
Along with the coastal storm, a freeze watch is scheduled for Southern New England starting Thursday night, indicating the possibility of temperatures falling to 29 degrees in certain areas. Lows in the 30s are expected overnight throughout most of Rhode Island, warranting cautious measures for sensitive vegetation and outdoor plumbing.
A high surf advisory is also currently active along the entire coastline of Southern New England due to Hurricane Humberto, which is located approximately 280 miles north/northwest of the region with sustained winds of 80 mph and moving northeast at 14 mph. Large breaking waves of 9 to 12 feet are anticipated, putting additional strain on coastal areas.
Furthermore, a small craft advisory has been issued for Block Island Sound and Rhode Island Sound due to hazardous conditions expected for small boats. Mariners and small boat operators are advised to exercise caution as these weather phenomena unfold.
The gathering storm marks a significant weather event for the region, underscoring the need for vigilance among residents and travelers. In light of these warnings and expected conditions, individuals are urged to remain updated on the latest information and prepared for changing weather patterns as Southern New England braces for a tumultuous weather experience.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Providence Journal: RI Weather to Deteriorate as Strong Coastal Storm Hits
- Weather.com: Local Alerts for Providence, RI
- WPRI: Detailed 7-Day Weather Forecast
- Providence Journal: RI Weather – Frost Could Damage Plants
- Weather.com: 10-Day Forecast for Warwick, RI
- Wikipedia: Weather of the United States
- Google Search: Rhode Island Weather Alerts
- Google Scholar: Coastal Storms in Rhode Island
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Meteorology
- Google News: Rhode Island Weather Forecast
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
