Rhode Island is bracing for a significant cold snap this week, with freezing temperatures and brisk winds expected to impact the state. As a polar vortex moves through the Northeast, residents are being warned of potentially dangerous conditions, including icy roads, freezing wind chills, and unusually cold temperatures for late February. The National Weather Service has issued a series of weather advisories, urging people to take precautions and stay warm.
Cold Front Sweeps Across Rhode Island
As of Thursday morning, Rhode Island is under a blanket of chilly air, with temperatures dipping to 25°F (-4°C) in Providence. The cold front will continue to move through the region, keeping temperatures below freezing throughout the day. On Thursday, Providence is expected to experience highs only reaching 28°F (-2°C), with lows dipping to 19°F (-7°C) overnight. With the wind chill, it could feel even colder, potentially dipping into the teens or single digits. This Arctic blast will continue through the weekend, making for an especially cold Friday and Saturday. Highs on Friday are forecast to reach just 35°F (2°C), but it will feel much colder due to gusty winds. Wind chills will likely make the temperatures feel like they’re in the 20s, even though the actual temperatures remain in the 30s. By Saturday, temperatures will slightly warm up, but it will remain frigid, with highs only reaching 36°F (2°C) and lows in the low 20s°F (-5°C).
Wind Chill Warning: What You Need to Know
The real threat of this cold snap lies in the wind chill. With winds gusting up to 25 mph at times, temperatures will feel significantly colder than the actual readings. Wind chills on Thursday and Friday could make it feel like it’s in the teens, increasing the risk of frostbite and hypothermia if proper precautions aren’t taken. For anyone needing to spend extended time outside, it’s essential to bundle up in layers, including hats, scarves, gloves, and thermal clothing. It’s also advised to limit exposure to the elements, especially for young children, the elderly, or anyone with medical conditions that could be aggravated by the extreme cold.
What to Expect for the Weekend
As the cold front begins to ease on Sunday, conditions will improve slightly. Rhode Islanders can expect a mix of sun and clouds, with highs reaching 41°F (5°C) and lows dipping to 22°F (-5°C) overnight. This will be the warmest day of the weekend, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities—though still chilly, it will be more manageable than the days before. The warmer trend will continue into the following week, with temperatures gradually rising to 44°F (7°C) on Monday and reaching a high of 47°F (8°C) by Tuesday. While things will start to feel more like normal winter temperatures, it will remain cooler than usual for late February.
Safety Precautions: How to Stay Warm and Safe
With cold temperatures and wind chills on the horizon, here are a few tips to stay safe during this cold snap:
- Dress in Layers: Wear multiple layers, including a hat, gloves, and scarf, to keep your body heat in.
- Limit Outdoor Exposure: Try to stay indoors as much as possible, especially during the coldest parts of the day.
- Winter-Proof Your Home: Make sure your heating system is working properly. If you have elderly neighbors or loved ones, check in on them to make sure they’re warm and safe.
- Be Cautious on the Roads: Snow and ice may accumulate on the roads, making driving hazardous. If you must go out, make sure your car is equipped for winter conditions, including emergency supplies like blankets, food, and water.
Rhode Island is facing some of the coldest weather of the season, with freezing temperatures, brisk winds, and dangerous wind chills affecting the state. While conditions will improve by the weekend, residents should take immediate action to stay warm and safe. By dressing in layers, staying indoors when possible, and checking on vulnerable neighbors, you can make it through this cold snap safely.