Potentially Damaging Winds Coming To RI: National Weather Service

RHODE ISLAND — Rhode Island could be in for a serious wind event on Wednesday and Thursday, with gusts reaching up to 55 mph in some parts of the state, according to forecasts.

The entire state will be under a wind advisory beginning at 1 p.m. Wednesday, when gusts will reach peak strength. The strongest gusts will come between 3 and 9 p.m. Wednesday, with especially strong winds along the coast.

Gusts will remain in the 30 to 40 mph range through Thursday Rhode island, according to the National Weather Service.

"A strong cold front approaches Wednesday, bringing a period of heavy rain along with strong to potentially damaging wind gusts late Wednesday into Wednesday evening. Windy conditions continue on Thursday, along with chilly temperatures," the weather service forecast said.

At the same time, temperatures may reach near 60 degrees Wednesday before falling into the low 30s overnight Wednesday. Thursday's daytime high will reach about 44 in many places, according to the forecast.

Here are some peak wind speed estimates for Wednesday afternoon, according to NWS:

• Block Island — 47 mph
• Providence — 51 mph.