RI Flood Watch On For Friday & Saturday

NEWPORT, RI—Rhode Island is under a flood watch starting Friday. That will follow the hazardous weather outlook starting Thursday night when rain is possible but mostly after midnight, the National Weather Service said.

Qver the stretch from Thursday night through Saturday, two to four inches of rain is expected. The combination of the rain and the melting snow could lead to flooding in some areas. The map shows the state divided into yellow and orange, where the yellow indicates a limited risk of flooding and the orange indicates the risk is elevated.

A flood watch means the potential exists for flooding.

According to the forecast, Newport's temperature on Thursday could go as high as 47, while Woonsocket might hit 51 degrees. But once the rain starts, it will continue into Friday and Saturday. So will the balmy temperatures, which will also stay relatively close to the highs overnight.

There is a possibility of heavy rain on Friday, the National Weather Service said.

The warnings mean some streams could flood, and some street flooding may also occur especially if drains are blocked. Drivers are warned to avoid driving through big puddles and flooded streets, as these situations can quickly turn into emergencies.

In the yellow section, the National Weather Service said there is a risk of "localized flash flooding of small streams and low water crossings, and minor flooding of poor drainage or urban areas." Drivers should be aware of potential trouble spots. In the orange areas, there's also a possibility of minor river flooding.

	Elevated	Risk of flash flooding of several low water crossings, roads, and small streams, or Minor River Flooding. Be prepared to move away from flood prone areas. If you observe flooded roadways, be prepared to change your driving course.

Photo: Courtesy National Weather Service