NEWS RELEASE June 7, 2006
Contact: Armand Randolph Telephone: (401) 462-7107 Mobile: (401) 413-9406 Fax: (401) 944-1891
RHODE ISLAND EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY (RIEMA) TO MONITOR RAIN STORM
RIEMA will partially staff State EOC and monitor rain.
Cranston, RI --- Please be advised, the National Weather Service issued a FLOOD STATEMENT which consists of a flood warning for Providence County, Kent and Bristol counties where as much as 2.5 inches has fallen since early this morning. Numerous reports of urban and significant street flooding have been reported and small streams are beginning to respond. Significant rises are occurring on tributaries to the Blackstone as well as on the Woonasquatucket River as well. Another 1 to 3 inches of rain is expected today between 1PM to 4PM and will likely lead to flooding on some small rivers and streams. This area of heavy rain will make travel very difficult for anyone driving on route 195...the southern portions of Route 495 as well as route 6. If driving in these areas through noon you should expect extensive pounding of water on roadways and reduced visibilities. Drivers should you extra caution if driving across Rhode Island and southeast Massachusetts this morning or early afternoon. Presently, RIEMA will be is in contact with local EMA officials, the National Weather Service and various state agencies to obtain up to date conditions. RIEMA will also staff state EOC with limited personnel until midnight. As conditions change, RIEMA will adjust their staffing and resources, and provide detailed information as it becomes available.
All requests for information should be directed to (401) 946-9996