High-impact storm to bring heavy rain, wind and coastal flooding late tonight through dawn

Rain has begun and will be picking up in intensity throughout the night, as will the accompanying winds. Numerous power outages are anticipated, especially at the coastline, where winds could gust to 60-70 mph. The main impact of this storm will be between midnight and 6 a.m. Wednesday. We are also expecting minor to moderate coastal flooding during the Wednesday morning high tides.

The heavy rain coupled with the moisture from the melting snowpack will lead to river flooding in the days ahead, with flood warnings being preemptively issued for the Pawtuxet, Blackstone and Wood rivers.

Dry weather is expected through Friday, with seasonable highs in the 40’s. However, we are watching yet another storm for Friday night that will likely drop a quick 1-2″ of rain with some gusty winds as well – but not as strong as those of tonight’s storm.