McKee rolls out plan for first snowstorm to impact Rhode Island this winter

Samantha Latos,
This is a picture of a snow plow getting ready to pick up salt ahead of a storm. (WLNE)

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee rolled out the state’s plan for the first snowstorm of the season expected this weekend.

The McKee Administration said a winter storm watch is in effect from Saturday afternoon through Sunday night.

The heaviest snow is expected between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. on Sunday.

“We are expecting snowfall totals to range from 1 to 10 inches across various sections of Rhode Island,” McKee said in a release.

The Department of Transportation is ready with over 425 plows and 65,000 tons of salt. The department held a media briefing on several matters on Friday, urging drivers to focus on the roads amid the inclement weather and traffic changes to Interstate 95 north in Providence.

Officials noted that extra tow trucks will be ready to clear any possible disabled vehicles in the Washington Bridge bypass lanes.

Rhode Island State Police will also be on standby for drivers in need of assistance.

The Office of Energy Resources and Rhode Island Energy will monitor the storm’s impact on fuel supplies and possible power outages across the state. RIE will open its storm room on Saturday and will use Bally’s in Lincoln as a staging site.

McKee noted that the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency is in communication with municipal leaders and local emergency management agencies to make sure Rhode Island communities are supported with warming centers.

The Department of Housing also announced emergency pop-up shelter locations for Rhode Islanders in need.

The following locations will be open in addition to the state’s existing shelters:

  • Newport: MLK Community Center, 20 Dr. Marcus Wheatland Blvd., Newport
  • Peace Dale (South Kingstown): Welcome House, 8 North Rd., South Kingstown
  • Providence: Crossroads Rhode Island Community Room, 160 Broad St., Providence
  • Westerly: WARM Center, 56 Spruce St., Westerly
  • West Warwick: West Warwick Civic Center, 100 Factory St., West Warwick
  • Woonsocket: CCA, 66 Social St., Woonsocket
  • Overflow: Vida Church 120 Prospect St., Woonsocket

Officials noted that drivers should avoid unnecessary travel. Those who have to drive during the heavy snowfall are advised to allow themselves plenty of travel time.

Drivers should stay far behind plows and never attempt to pass them, as plow drivers have limited vision and reaction time.

The public is further advised to put together a storm kit in case of power outages with items like batteries, flashlights, a First Aid kit, and non-perishable food items.

Categories: News, Rhode Island

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