URGENT UPDATE: Rhode Island is bracing for a powerful blizzard as Gov. Dan McKee has declared a state of emergency and enacted a travel ban effective immediately. The storm is expected to unleash its fury on southeastern New England starting February 22, 2025, with travel conditions rapidly deteriorating to “dangerous to impossible.”
The travel ban for commercial vehicles will begin at 5 p.m., followed by a complete ban on all vehicle traffic at 7 p.m. As McKee emphasized, “Once the snow starts, our plows need to be able to operate safely. Let’s make sure that we respect their space to clear the roads − and our first responders, the same thing. Do not drive once the travel ban goes into effect.”
The National Weather Service has issued a blizzard warning for Rhode Island starting at 4 p.m. today. Residents can expect heavy snowfall, with accumulation ranging from 18 to 30 inches expected across most of the state. The snow could fall at rates of up to 4 inches per hour, creating treacherous conditions.
During the travel ban, only emergency vehicles and snow plows will be allowed on the roads. In response to the storm, the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) has announced the suspension of all services, including RIde paratransit, beginning at 9 p.m. today and continuing through February 23. Service will resume as conditions permit.
Adding to the disruption, T.F. Green International Airport announced that airlines have canceled the majority of arrivals scheduled after 6:30 p.m. today, as well as numerous flights on Monday, February 23. Travelers are urged to check with their airlines for the latest updates.
As the storm approaches, residents are advised to take precautions, stay indoors, and prepare for possible power outages. The state of emergency will remain in effect until further notice, underlining the seriousness of this developing situation.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.
