News Summary
Rhode Island is bracing for a spring nor’easter set to strike on May 23, 2025. The National Weather Service warns of 1.5 to 3 inches of rain and wind gusts reaching 50+ mph, particularly affecting coastal areas. Residents are advised to prepare for potential flooding, power outages, and difficult travel conditions. As the storm passes, Memorial Day weekend is expected to bring improvements with milder weather, allowing for safer outdoor activities.
Rhode Island Faces Nor’easter with Heavy Rain and Strong Winds
A spring nor’easter is set to impact Rhode Island on Thursday, May 23, 2025, bringing heavy rain and strong winds to the region. The National Weather Service has issued alerts, forecasting rainfall totals between 1.5 to 3 inches and wind gusts reaching between 40 to 50+ mph, particularly along the coastal areas.
The storm is expected to begin overnight, leading into Thursday morning. Meteorologists predict that the heaviest rainfall will occur from mid to late morning, continuing throughout the afternoon and evening. Thunderstorms may accompany the rain during the day, increasing the risks of localized street flooding and isolated power outages across the state.
Coastal areas, especially around Narragansett Bay and the South County coast, may experience minor coastal flooding and beach erosion due to the storm surge. Residents in these areas are advised to take precautions against potential flooding and power interruptions.
By late Thursday night, conditions are anticipated to improve, though lingering showers may persist into Friday. High temperatures are expected to remain quite chilly, only reaching the upper 50s. The Memorial Day weekend looks to be mostly favorable, with Sunday and Monday projected to feature brighter and milder weather.
Weather Forecast Details
- Date: Thursday, May 23, 2025
- Rainfall: Total expected between 1.5 to 3 inches.
- Wind Gusts: Anticipated peaks of 40 to 50+ mph.
- Coastal Risks: Possible minor flooding and beach erosion.
- Temperatures on Friday: Expected highs in the upper 50s.
Impact on Residents
Residents are urged to prepare for possible disruptions as the nor’easter approaches. With strong winds and heavy rains on the forecast, locals should consider measures such as securing outdoor furniture, checking emergency kits, and staying tuned for further weather updates.
Travel conditions may also be affected, especially along the coastline and in areas prone to flooding. Drivers are advised to exercise caution and avoid areas that may be under water or blocked by fallen debris.
Looking Ahead
Despite the significant weather activity expected on Thursday, the forecast for Memorial Day weekend suggests an improvement. The latter part of the weekend is expected to bring brighter skies and a mild climate, allowing residents to enjoy outdoor activities safely.
Background Context
Nor’easters are common in the northeastern United States, particularly during the spring months. They are characterized by heavy precipitation and strong winds, which can lead to hazardous conditions. Rhode Island has experienced similar storms in the past, with varying impacts on infrastructure and daily life.
The National Weather Service continuously monitors weather patterns and provides updates to help keep residents informed and prepared. Staying informed about approaching storms is crucial, as these weather events can change rapidly and have significant effects on communities.
As Rhode Island braces for the upcoming nor’easter, staying alert and prepared is key to navigating the potentially challenging weather ahead.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Providence Journal: RI Weather Noreaster Thursday Forecast
- WPRI: Weather Now – Chilly Today, Rain & Wind Storm for Thursday
- What’s Up Newp: Newport 7-Day Weather Forecast
- Providence Journal: RI Weather Coastal Flooding Advisory Issued
- Weather.com: Newport, RI Weather
- Wikipedia: Nor’easter
- Google Search: Rhode Island Weather
- Google Scholar: Nor’easter Impact Rhode Island
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Nor’easter
- Google News: Rhode Island Weather Forecast
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF 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.
