The National Weather Service for RI is predicting a staggered snow event ending by mid-day tomorrow.
All of Rhode Island can expect approximately 3-6 inches of snow by the time the storm ends tomorrow. Significantly, the storm will come in two distinct phases, the first ending this evening and the second commencing in the early morning hours and ending at mid day. 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. Employers may want to consider early or staggered release plans. The RIEMA Emergency Operations Center is open for this event and currently minimally staffed pending further analysis. 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.
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Residents should use caution when digging out from the storm. Excessive snow shoveling can cause a range of health problems, from back injuries to heart attack, if not done in moderation. Residents should not overexert themselves and should take frequent breaks from shoveling RIEMA has scheduled the following conference calls for today: 3:15 pm National Weather Service call 4:00 pm Locals Emergency Management Directors call 4:45 pm Media Call in conference
RIEMA is reminding you that we are posting the latest information on our website which can be linked at www.riema.ri.gov.
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.
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