Providence, RI – Southern New England woke up to powerful westerly winds early Saturday, with gusts reaching 45–50 mph across Rhode Island and eastern Massachusetts. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Norton issued a Wind Advisory through 5 a.m., warning residents and drivers of hazardous travel conditions, especially on I-95, Route 6, and coastal bridges.
The Incident: Wind Gusts Sweep Across Southern New England
Before sunrise, fierce crosswinds rattled neighborhoods and blew down small branches and leftover Halloween decorations. The gusty pattern, driven by a strong pressure gradient behind a departing low-pressure system, made travel difficult for high-profile vehicles and created hazardous conditions near open stretches of highway and coastal bridges.
Commuters were urged to exercise caution, as gusts occasionally exceeded 50 mph in exposed areas. Meteorologists noted that downtown Providence, New Bedford, and Fall River saw the strongest early-morning gusts before winds began to ease later in the morning.
Forecast and Weather Pattern: Wind Subsides, Sunshine Returns
According to the National Weather Service in Norton, conditions will gradually calm through midmorning as skies turn mostly sunny and temperatures rise into the mid-50s. By Saturday afternoon, a crisp, dry air mass will settle across the region, providing a refreshing late-fall feel.
“We expect a much quieter day after sunrise,” forecasters said. “Once winds taper off, the rest of the weekend looks ideal for outdoor activities.”
The mild and clear weather will continue through Sunday, giving residents a good opportunity to handle yard cleanup or start early holiday decorating before the next system moves in from the Mid-Atlantic.
Monday Outlook: Rain Returns for the Morning Commute
Forecasters say clouds will increase late Sunday night, followed by a 60–70 percent chance of rain early Monday morning as a weak coastal low tracks northeast. The heaviest rain is expected during the morning and midday hours, affecting Providence, Warwick, and Taunton during the commute.
Light flooding could occur in low-lying areas and leaf-clogged storm drains, leading to minor ponding on roads. Winds will shift to a southwesterly flow at 15–20 mph before turning northwest by Tuesday as the system departs.
Public Safety and Preparation
The NWS advised residents to secure lightweight outdoor items such as Halloween decorations, trash bins, and patio furniture ahead of Sunday’s rain. Homeowners are also encouraged to clear gutters and storm drains to prevent localized flooding.
Temperatures will remain seasonable, with highs near 60 °F early in the week, cooling into the 50s by Wednesday. The pleasant stretch provides a manageable start to November, though colder air is expected to reach northern New England by midmonth, possibly producing the season’s first snow showers before Thanksgiving.
Five-Day Forecast for Providence, Rhode Island
- Saturday: 55°/35° – Sunny and breezy; early 45 mph gusts easing by noon.
- Sunday: 54°/37° – Mostly sunny and calm; classic fall afternoon.
- Monday: 59°/45° – 70% chance of rain; breezy, damp commute.
- Tuesday: 57°/40° – Sunny and crisp; gusty northwest breeze.
- Wednesday: 56°/43° – Partly sunny; cooler, late-fall feel.
Conclusion
Southern New England can expect a calm, bright weekend following today’s blustery start, but rain will return by Monday’s commute, bringing slippery roads and damp travel. With cooler air expected to filter in later next week, residents are reminded that winter-like weather may not be far behind.
What are your thoughts on the upcoming weather changes? Share your local observations and weekend plans in the comments below.
