5k+ Without Power, Streets Flooded In RI After Fast-Moving Storm

NEWPORT, RI — More than 5,000 people across Rhode Island are without power Tuesday afternoon following a fast-moving system of thunderstorms that brought heavy rain and gusty winds to the region.

Most of the power outages were in Newport, where more than 4,500 Rhode Islanders were in the dark as of 4:30 p.m. The remaining outages were scattered across the state, with several hundred reported in the Providence area and more than 100 in South County.

Check the status of a power outage using National Grid's interactive, online map.

Video from Narragansett shows vehicles driving through wheel-high water on what appeared to be Beach Street, where storm drains proved ineffective. The National Weather Service reminded all drivers to never attempt to drive through flooded streets, and to seek an alternate road instead.

While skies have cleared over much of the state, a flash flood warning remain in effect for much the southeast corner of the state and the East Bay until 6 p.m.

Videos taken during the storm in Newport show powerful winds and deafening, driving rain. In one video, small tree limbs whip across the frame as patio furniture shakes from the strong gusts.