Rhode Island prepares for heavy snowfall on Friday

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE)- Rhode Island is gearing up for the potential of heavy snowfall early Friday morning into the afternoon and is expected to cause dangerous driving conditions during the morning commute.

Governor Dan McKee and the Rhode Island Department of Transportation are urging Rhode Islanders to stay off the roads as snow plows work towards creating the safest possible traveling conditions.

“I want Rhode Islanders to know that we have plenty of materials to treat the roads and staff to plow and clear the roads on a state level and I’m confident that municipal level they will be prepared as well” said Governor McKee.

“When you see our trucks out there plowing if you would give them room, don’t crowd the plows, get out of their way and let them do their work” Peter Alviti, Director of RIDOT explained, “Drive safely, reduce your speed in the ice and snow and avoid distractions. Don’t look at your phones and anything else. It’s particularly important tomorrow morning during rush hour period.”

300 private vendors and 150 RIDOT trucks will be operating during the height of the storm to help avoid the snow piling up.