Raimondo Fears RI Coronavirus Cases May Spike After Nice Weekend

PROVIDENCE, RI — Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo is worried that the state's coronavirus cases might rise after this weekend due to people gathering to enjoy sun and warm temperatures.

Raimondo said she had personally heard from people making plans to spend some time with friends this weekend, a violation of her stay-at-home order. Rhode Island will have sun and temperatures at or above 70 all weekend, according to forecasts.

"I'm asking you to not give in to that temptation," she said during a Saturday news conference. "The stay-at-home order is not lifted."

As evidence, Raimondo referred to a chart showing the number of coronavirus hospitalizations in the state. There was a spike in hospitalizations between April 20 and 22, which she said was due to people gathering for the Easter and Passover holidays.

"That is my way of saying if in two weeks from today we see a spike, it's because we went out this weekend and got together when we really shouldn't," she said.

Rhode Island is approaching a plateau in cases, according to state data. The case numbers could stay in a plateau for several weeks if people begin going out in public. A second scenario sees the state's cases drop faster if people stay inside.

READ: Rhode Island Coronavirus Cases Rise To 9,289, 17 New Deaths

Raimondo's stay-at-home order is set to lift on May 8. It's unclear if she will extend it as governors in Connecticut and Massachusetts have. She did say that people congregating this weekend, and a subsequent rise in cases, could force her to extend the order.

More details on reopening the state will be announced this upcoming week, Raimondo said on Saturday.

Rhode Island Director of Health Nicole Alexander-Scott said that residents should only venture out in limited circumstances. She asked residents to follow several guidelines if doing so.

"Make sure you keep your distance, make sure you're wearing a cloth face covering, make sure you're washing your hands regularly," she said. "If you don't feel well, you should not be going out."

Also on Saturday, Raimondo announced a new $1.5 million state fund for low-income renters. Anyone who needs assistance with paying rent should call the United Way at 211, she said.