PROVIDENCE, R.I. - Governor Gina M. Raimondo today released the following statement urging Rhode Islanders to take caution on the roads during Monday's storm:
"My number one priority through this storm - and every storm - is keeping people safe. I'm urging everyone to take extra caution on the roads tonight after the Super Bowl as the snow begins and first thing tomorrow for what is going to be a very messy, and potentially dangerous, morning commute.
"State offices will be open tomorrow, but operating under the adverse weather policy between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. I encourage all businesses to be flexible with their employees; safety is paramount. I also want to remind everyone to check for school closures and to observe parking bans to allow plows, public safety workers and utility workers to do their jobs.
"I'm in regular communication with state agencies today, and we are hard at work monitoring this storm and taking steps to prepare. Our plows and salt supplies are in good shape and RIDOT is ready to pre-treat the roads and then begin plowing when the snow starts. My team is also in close touch with National Grid, urging them to prepare for any outages.
"Please continue to check the news and social media for updates tonight and tomorrow, and again, please take extra caution on the roads."
Additional Information & Updates:
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for all of Rhode Island beginning at 9 p.m. tonight through 1 a.m. Tuesday morning.
Government will be open on Monday, but operating under an adverse weather policy from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This means non-essential employees who are scheduled to work during this time -- and who are unable to report for work (or who wish to report late or leave early) -- may discharge annual leave, personal leave, or leave without pay and must notify their supervisor in accordance with their division's procedures.
This storm may cause isolated power outages. Remember: Do NOT call 911 to report a power outage. Contact National Grid at 1-800-465-1212.
Rhode Island's Emergency Operations Center will activate at 4 a.m. Monday morning.
RIPTA is currently planning to operate under a regular schedule on Monday, but riders are advised to check for detours and delays.
Please monitor social media and the news media for continued updates: @GinaRaimondo @RhodeIslandEMA @RIDOTNews @RIStatePolice @nationalgridus @NWS
Safety & Preparedness Reminders:
This storm is predicted to bring heavier, wetter snow than we experienced during Juno. This type of snow increases the potential for numerous power outages, particularly as the winds pick up Monday night. Please plan ahead today with flashlights and extra batteries, extra blankets, a portable radio, and sufficient food and water.
Snow may be very heavy and wet in some areas. When shoveling, remember to take frequent breaks to avoid overexertion. Keep fire hydrants clear of snow.
Make sure generators are operated away from the home and in a well-ventilated area to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Plan long trips carefully, listening to the news/media for the latest weather forecasts and road conditions.
Make an emergency supply kit for your vehicle, in addition to the emergency supply kit for your home. Include a shovel, jumper cables, and a bag of sand.
Keep your gas tank full.
Install good winter tires with adequate tread.
Check your windshield wiper fluid.
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Follow Governor Raimondo on Twitter: @GinaRaimondo
www.governor.ri.gov