The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch throughout the state of Rhode Island from 12:42 pm today, until 1:00 am on February 3rd. We are expecting snow to start around 5:00 am Tuesday morning and continue throughout the day. Snowfall will be moderate, but could reach up to an inch per hour at times. Approximate accumulation will be between 4–8 inches. The snow should taper off by 7-8 pm on Tuesday evening.
This storm is expected to have a minor effect on the morning commute; however, snow accumulation during the day will result in a moderate to major effect on the evening commute. Please be aware that winter weather warrants slower driving speeds. Please put additional car lengths between you and the vehicle ahead; distracted driving also contributes to bad reaction time and sudden stops causing skidding and crashes.
RIEMA REMINDS YOU THAT ROOF COLLAPSE CONTINUES TO BE OF HIGH CONCERN. The amount of recent snowfall that is piling up could weaken roof structure and cause a collapse. Homeowners and business owners should be mindful of the risk of personal injury to themselves and occupants before removing snow from roofs. A contractor could be helpful in assessing the need for snow removal.
RIEMA has scheduled the following conference calls for tomorrow: • 9 am School Superintendents call • 3:15 pm National Weather Service call • 4:00 pm Locals call
RIEMA is reminding you that we are posting the latest information on our website which can be linked at www.riema.ri.gov. Conference calls are scheduled with School Superintendents, local EMA directors, public works directors, public safety officials, and Chambers of Commerce at times that we hope will benefit their needs.
The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA) is the state agency responsible for coordinating federal, state, and local resources to protect the public during disasters and emergencies. RIEMA helps develop plans for effective response to all hazards, trains emergency personnel, provides information to families and communities, and assists in recovery from disaster losses. You can learn more about RIEMA by visiting the RIEMA homepage at www.riema.ri.gov.