URGENT UPDATE: Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee has just declared a state of emergency and imposed a travel ban ahead of a powerful blizzard set to strike southeastern New England starting February 22, 2023. The National Weather Service has issued a blizzard warning, predicting that most areas will experience 18 to 30 inches of heavy, wet snow, with snowfall rates potentially reaching up to 4 inches per hour.
Travel conditions are expected to become “dangerous to impossible,” prompting the state to take swift action. A travel ban for commercial vehicle traffic will begin at 5 p.m., followed by a ban on all vehicle traffic starting at 7 p.m.. Governor McKee emphasized the importance of keeping roads clear for emergency responders and snow plows, stating,
“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.”
In light of the impending storm, the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) has announced the suspension of all services, including RIde paratransit, beginning at 9 p.m. on February 22 and continuing through February 23. Service will resume as soon as weather and road conditions permit, according to an official news release.
At T.F. Green International Airport, airlines have already canceled the majority of flights scheduled to arrive after 6:30 p.m. on February 22, along with several departures and arrivals for February 23. Travelers are urged to check with their airlines for the latest updates.
Residents are advised to stay indoors and avoid all non-essential travel as the storm approaches. The blizzard is expected to bring not only heavy snowfall but also strong winds, which could lead to hazardous conditions across the state.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: As the situation develops, updates will be provided regarding the progress of the storm, the status of travel bans, and any additional emergency measures that may be implemented. Stay tuned for further information as Rhode Island braces for this significant weather event.
This is a critical situation that could have widespread impacts, so sharing this information is vital to ensure everyone’s safety during the storm.
