News Summary
On July 3, thunderstorms led to widespread power outages across Rhode Island and Massachusetts, impacting Fourth of July celebrations. The severe weather resulted in significant property damage, downed trees, and delayed fireworks displays. While some communities managed to stage abbreviated shows, safety concerns caused others to postpone their celebrations. Residents dealt with severe conditions, with high winds and heavy rainfall prompting warnings from the National Weather Service, which is a reminder of summer’s unpredictable weather patterns.
Providence, Rhode Island
Thunderstorms swept across Rhode Island and Massachusetts on July 3, 2025, leading to significant power outages and delayed Fourth of July fireworks displays. The storms, characterized by heavy rain, strong winds, and penny-sized hail, prompted a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Bristol County, Kent County, and Providence County, which has since expired.
As of 10:30 p.m., nearly 49,500 customers in Rhode Island and approximately 8,745 National Grid customers in Massachusetts were left without power due to the storms. Reports of downed trees and power lines, localized street flooding, and various property damages emerged from across the region, highlighting the storm’s impact.
In Barrington, a tree fell on a parked vehicle, resulting in damage but fortunately causing no injuries. Similarly, in Bristol, another tree collapsed onto a car, requiring the occupants to remain inside until firefighters ensured their safety. The situation worsened in Fall River, where bricks fell onto Bank Street due to façade dislodgment, but no injuries were reported.
A significant event occurred when a building’s roof was blown off at Pleasant Avenue and Clafin Street, landing on parked cars below and downing nearby power lines. These incidents encapsulated the dangerous conditions experienced throughout the affected regions during the storms.
Many communities had to delay their annual Fourth of July fireworks displays due to safety concerns. While Bristol and East Providence eventually set off their fireworks after the storms passed, the shows were notably shorter than usual, lasting less than 10 minutes. In North Kingstown, despite the weather, the fireworks display went ahead due to contractual obligations, creating a mix of anticipation and concern among local residents.
Spectators in Warwick sought shelter at venues like Iggy’s Doughboys and Chowder House while waiting for the storms to subside before heading out for their annual fireworks viewing. The mixed weather pattern not only caused disruptions but also safety issues for residents and event organizers.
The National Weather Service had issued a severe thunderstorm watch across several states in the Northeast, including Rhode Island, which was expected to remain in effect until 10 p.m. The forecast warned of high winds reaching up to 70 mph, frequent lightning, and potential for hail as large as 2 inches.
Looking ahead, the weather is expected to improve after the storms. A more comfortable airmass is predicted for the July 4th holiday weekend, with forecasts indicating dry and sunny conditions. This shift in weather may provide relief to those who were impacted by the storms and those planning to celebrate the holiday.
The severe thunderstorms that impacted Rhode Island and areas beyond serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of summer weather. Residents are advised to stay informed about potential weather changes and to prioritize safety during severe weather events.
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Heat Advisory and Flood Watch Issued for Rhode Island
Heat Advisory and Flood Watch Issued for Northern Rhode Island
East Providence Cancels Fireworks Display Due to Weather
Providence Faces Fire Displacement During Heatwave
Severe Storm Causes Widespread Damage in Rhode Island
Additional Resources
- Providence Journal: RI Weather – Severe Thunderstorms Could Impact July 3 Fireworks
- Providence Journal: RI Weather – July 4th Weekend Has Thunderstorms
- WPRI: Powerful Thunderstorms Wreak Havoc on RI & Mass
- Patch: Thunderstorms and Rain on Horizon for RI Weekend Weather Forecast
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
