DEM Opens Two Beaches Early for Hot Weekend

PROVIDENCE, RI — It’ll be a hot weekend with a heat advisory in effect for Rhode Island and neighboring states till 8 p.m., with heat index values of up to 99 and a high temperatures in the 90s, and the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) has opened Scarborough North and Roger Wheeler beaches in Narragansett to help people cope.

The announcement continues a practice DEM began several years ago, opening some beaches before the traditional start of the summer outdoor recreation season on Memorial Day weekend. DEM officials announced they hope access to the beaches help Rhode Islanders beat the heat, with the season’s first 90+ degree days with elevated humidity May 21-22 away from the immediate coast.

There will be full amenities at both beaches with lifeguards, restrooms, and concessions. Visitors arriving in cars will have to pay a daily parking fee unless they already have purchased their daily flex pass or season parking pass online (www.beachparkingri.com). The daily beach parking fee is $7 on weekends ($14 for non-residents). Prepaid customers may use the express lanes at both beaches for speedier access. DEM’s parking vendor employs license plate recognition technology at the express lanes whereby a scan is taken of the rear license plates of prepaid customers confirming that the customer has paid to allow for quick entry. Please allow space for the car at the gate space for the reader to recognize the license plate.

DEM is advising that because of storms since 2021, Scarborough North has experienced some erosion and there is less occupiable beach area than in previous years. This will be particularly pronounced at high tide, which is expected at around 1 PM on May 21 and 2 PM on May 22, when water will be covering most of the beach front. DEM will be monitoring this situation and may not be able to allow both parking lots at Scarborough, the main and overflow lots, to reach capacity.

 Hot weather tips

• For those who can’t get to one of the beaches this weekend, the National Weather Service offers some advice:
• Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.
• Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.
• Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside.
• When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening.
• Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
• Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible.
• To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments.
• Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.