RI Prepares For Major Winter Storm: Latest Forecast, Accumulation Estimates, How To Prepare

A massive snow and ice storm is expected to hit more than two dozen states — including Rhode Island — by the weekend.

"The amount and extent of snow and ice could cut power and disrupt travel for days, increasing the risk to lives and property," according to the AccuWeather forecast.

"Potentially hundreds of thousands of people may go without electricity and heat for days,” AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter said.

See also: Snowstorm To Cause 'Significant Travel Disruptions' For Rhode Island

The National Weather Service issued a winter storm watch from Sunday morning through Monday evening.

"Persons should delay all travel if possible," the National Weather Service warned.

"If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility," the National Weather Service said. "Leave plenty of room between you and the motorist ahead of you, and allow extra time to reach your destination. Avoid sudden braking or acceleration, and be especially cautious on hills or when making turns. Make sure your car is winterized and in good working order."

The snow will start falling in Rhode Island about 9 a.m. Sunday, according to the National Weather Service.

The Saturday night low temperature will be 5 degrees and the snow will continue Sunday through Monday night, the National Weather Service predicts.

As much as 15 inches of snow is expected to fall, according to the National Weather Service.

See also: Frigid Temperatures To Hit Rhode Island This Weekend: Latest Forecast

"During and after the storm, frigid conditions, with temperatures dropping into the 20s, teens and even the single digits, may cause pipes to burst and lead to additional property damage," AccuWeather warned, with Portering adding that travel disruptions are expected.

"More than 4,000 flight cancellations are likely across the country this weekend," Porter said.

See also: Snow Looming In Rhode Island Later This Week

With AccuWeather cautioning that some airports that experience significant ice buildup or heavy snow may be forced to close for an extended period.

The city of Providence provides information on warming centers and other winter weather-related announcements can be found on the city's Snow Ready page.

The National Weather Service urged residents to prepare for the storm.

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"Over 160 million Americans are under winter hazards associated with the impending major winter storm," the National Weather Service posted on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. "Disruptive snowfall is likely from the Southern Rockies to the Northeast, including dangerous ice from the ArkLaTex to the southern Mid-Atlantic."

The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency provides maps of power outages to consult in the event of blackouts.

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