A statewide travel ban will take effect Sunday evening as Rhode Island prepares for blizzard conditions expected to bring up to 2 feet of snow and powerful winds.
Under an order issued by Governor Dan McKee, commercial vehicle travel will be restricted beginning at 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 22, followed by a restriction on all motor vehicle travel statewide at 7 p.m. The restrictions will remain in place until further notice. Vehicles transporting emergency personnel or supplies are exempt.
McKee also declared a State of Emergency, authorized activation of the Rhode Island National Guard if necessary, and ordered the State Emergency Operations Center activated for the duration of the storm.
The National Weather Service has issued a Blizzard Warning from 4 p.m. Sunday through 7 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24. Forecasters say the storm could produce 18 to 24 inches of heavy, wet snow with wind gusts reaching 60 mph across the state.
The heaviest snowfall and potential whiteout conditions are expected between 1 a.m. and noon Monday, creating hazardous travel and increasing the risk of power outages.
“We’re asking Rhode Islanders to take this storm seriously and stay home,” McKee said in a statement.
The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency is coordinating response efforts with local emergency management officials. In partnership with the American Red Cross, regional shelters will open at:
• Gaudet Middle School in Middletown (4 p.m.)
• Jenks Middle School in Pawtucket (6 p.m.)
Officials are urging residents to prepare for extended disruptions and avoid unnecessary travel as conditions deteriorate.
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