News Summary
A severe nor’easter is approaching Southern New England, particularly Rhode Island, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and potential flooding. Residents are advised to prepare as rain is expected to start Wednesday night, lasting into Friday morning. Wind gusts could exceed 50 mph along the coast, raising concerns for coastal flooding. Following the storm, the weekend is expected to be drier, with cool temperatures. Authorities urge vigilance as they monitor the situation and prepare for hazardous road conditions.
Cranston, Rhode Island – A serious nor’easter is set to impact Southern New England this Thursday, bringing with it heavy rain, strong winds, and significant coastal hazards. The storm is expected to hit overnight, with forecasts indicating that Rhode Island could receive between 1.5 and 3 inches of rain. Wind gusts along the coast could reach between 40 to over 50 mph, raising concerns about minor coastal flooding.
As the region prepares for the intense weather, Rhode Island State Police responded to a disturbance at the Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal in Cranston on Tuesday at approximately 9:45 a.m. Two individuals, 26-year-old Raven Machado and 28-year-old Enrique Ares, were arrested and face charges of simple assault and disorderly conduct. Ares is being held as a bail violator and was transported to the Adult Correctional Institutions (ACI), while Machado is being processed as a probation and bail violator.
As the nor’easter approaches, meteorologists have outlined the expected weather impacts. Rain is forecasted to begin on Wednesday night, with low temperatures around 47°F. On Thursday, a high of 52°F is expected along with a 100% chance of rain, particularly in the early hours before 4 a.m. The rain will continue into Friday morning, with temperatures in the mid to upper 50s.
Weekend Outlook
Following the storm, conditions are expected to improve late Thursday night, with clearing anticipated by Friday morning. While some showers may linger into Friday afternoon, the weekend forecast looks primarily dry. Meteorologist Frank Nocera has indicated that temperatures will be unusually cool for this time of year. By Monday, which is expected to be the best day of the weekend, temperatures could reach the upper 60s to low 70s.
Weather Pattern Background
Nor’easters are characterized as large, low-pressure storms that typically bring substantial weather challenges to the East Coast, including heavy rain or snow, high winds, and coastal flooding. In this instance, Massachusetts is not expected to see snowfall; however, mountainous regions in New Hampshire could experience some accumulation due to the storm’s conditions.
Weekly Weather Summary
Wednesday’s forecast suggests a mostly cloudy day with patchy drizzle, with a high near 57°F. Following the rainy conditions on Thursday, Friday’s forecast anticipates a high near 59°F but cautions that rain may still be possible in the morning. Saturday is projected to have a high near 63°F with the possibility of showers before 4 p.m. Sunday and into Monday, the weather is forecasted to improve with temperatures rising to 67°F and 68°F respectively.
Residents are advised to stay updated with weather warnings and prepare for potential impacts from the nor’easter. Road conditions may be hazardous, especially in coastal areas, and caution is advised for travelers. Authorities will continue to monitor the situation as the storm approaches.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Rhode Island Prepares for Spring Nor’easter with Heavy Rain and Winds
Additional Resources
- Providence Journal: RI Weather Nor’easter Thursday Forecast
- WPRI: Weather Now – Chilly Today, Rain & Wind Storm for Thursday
- Fall River Reporter: Forecasters Issue Update on Nor’easter
- Wikipedia: Nor’easter
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Nor’easter
