News Summary
A nor’easter is set to affect Rhode Island with significant storm impacts through Tuesday. The National Weather Service has issued a storm watch and coastal flood watch, cautioning residents to prepare for flooding and hazardous conditions. Boaters are advised to remain in port due to dangerous sea conditions. The storm is expected to escalate by Monday, bringing heavy rain and strong winds, with travel warnings for flooded areas. Residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions.
Providence, Rhode Island – A nor’easter is projected to develop off the East Coast, bringing significant storm impacts to Rhode Island through Tuesday. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a storm watch and coastal flood watch for the state’s coastline throughout the Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples’ Day weekend. A gale watch is also currently in effect for Narragansett Bay due to forecasted windy conditions.
The storm is expected to move toward New England as the weekend progresses, with AccuWeather predicting hazardous weather that poses risks for flooding. The storm watch for the Rhode Island coastline will remain in effect from Sunday afternoon to Monday evening. Predicted sea heights range from 12 to 17 feet, leading to potentially dangerous and damaging conditions.
Boaters are advised to exercise caution as hazardous sea conditions could capsize or damage vessels and significantly reduce visibility on the water. Mariners are strongly encouraged to remain in port or adjust their routes to avoid the rough seas.
The coastal flood watch will span from the morning of Sunday, October 12, through Monday night, October 13. Residents in low-lying coastal areas should be prepared for flooding of 1 to 2 feet above ground level during this period. While travel will still be possible, motorists are advised to steer clear of barricades or areas where water depth is unclear.
In conjunction with the storm, a gale watch remains in effect for Narragansett Bay from Sunday through Monday as strong winds are anticipated to affect the region. Wave heights in the bay may reach between 2 to 3 feet, further escalating the risks for boaters and coastal activities.
In contrast to what lies ahead, Saturday is forecasted to be the most pleasant day of the weekend, with partly sunny skies, a high of 65°F, and a low of 52°F. However, over the course of Saturday, periods of rain are expected to begin as the storm approaches.
By Monday, conditions are expected to worsen significantly, characterized by strong winds and rain, with a high of 61°F. The approaching storm could bring between one to two inches of rain across the region, exacerbating the already elevated flooding risks.
This upcoming weather event follows typical storm patterns experienced during the fall months in New England, which often bring unpredictable and severe weather conditions. Residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions as the storm approaches.
This series of advisories serves to alert the public to the potential hazards associated with the nor’easter, reinforcing the importance of safety and preparedness as storm systems move toward coastal regions. The community is reminded to monitor local weather reports and follow any official recommendations to minimize risks during this weather event.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Cumberland Approves Expansion of Rhode Island Energy Training Facility
Boston Braces for Coastal Storm Impacting New England
Brush Fires Disrupt Traffic in East Providence and Beyond
Severe Nor’easter to Hit Rhode Island This Weekend
Cumberland Planning Board Approves Energy Training Facility Expansion
Brad Valois Wins Rhode Island Mid-Amateur Title
Erin Jones Achieves Career-high Kills in Volleyball Match
One Neighborhood Builders Secures Funding for Center City Apartments
Massachusetts Teachers Face Leave Over Social Media Comments
Flash Flood Warning in Rhode Island and Massachusetts
Additional Resources
- Providence Journal: Nor’easter Slamming State
- Wikipedia: Nor’easter
- Providence Journal: First Nor’easter of Season
- Google Search: Nor’easter Rhode Island
- GoLocalProv: Winter Storm Warning Issued
- Google Scholar: Nor’easter Impact on Coastal Communities
- WPRI: Providence Officials Outline Hurricane Season Preparations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane Season
- Providence Journal: Hurricane Season Preparations
- Google News: Hurricane Season Preparations
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.
