WARWICK, RI — There are high wind and flood watches in effect for the area Tuesday through Wednesday, the National Weather Service reports.
The combined stormy weather could produce gusts of up to 55 mph and rainfall of 3 to 5 inches per hour during the next two days in eastern, northeastern and southeastern Massachusetts and northern and southern Rhode Island. the NWS reports.
Flood watch
NWS reports a rapidly-developing low pressure system is expected to produce heavy rainfall across the region. Rainfall totals of 3 to 5 inches, with higher amounts possible in specific areas. Rainfall could exceed one inch per hour at times. NWS reminds the public that flooding of roads and ponding of water in low lying areas is possible. The Tuesday evening commute may be particularly difficult.
High Wind Watch
Northeast winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 55 mph are possible Tuesday morning through Wednesday afternoon., according to the NWS. Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines, causing power outages. Travel may be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles.
People should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches. If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Use caution if you must drive.
Emergency Alerts/Info:
RIBA – Make sure you’re signed up for text alerts from the Rhode Island Broadcasters Association. You’ll get emergency notifications (including school closings and delays) direct to your phone or email.
CodeRED – The City of Warwick has instituted a new rapid emergency notification service called CodeRED®. The new system will distribute emergency messages via telephone to targeted areas or the entire City of Warwick. Register here.
TF Green Airport – As of 8:40 a.m., two 10 a.m. outbound flights to Newark have been cancelled. Click here to follow arrivals and departures at Green.
Emergency Calls:
- In an emergency, dial 911
- Police Department: 401-468-4200
- Fire Department: (401) 468-4000
- Highway Dept./Snow removal – 401-738-2000 ext. 6518
- Do NOT call 911 to report a power outage. Contact National Grid at 1-800-465-1212. Smartphone users can also text STORM to NGRID (64743) for outage alerts. To check the status of outages in your area, visit National Grid Outage Central for Rhode Island.
Listen to NOAA radio: Check the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration radio frequency here.
Tips for Preparing for the Storm:
- Power problems can sometimes interrupt public water supply systems or disable well pumps, so it’s an especially good idea to keep a supply of bottled drinking water handy, as well as some canned food.
- People who depend on electric-powered life support equipment, such as a respirator, should let National Grid know. To register as a life support customer, call the company’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-322-3223.
Stay Connected
- It is a good idea to ensure all mobile devices in your home are fully charged prior to the storm.
- Receive statewide text message alerts and updates when you text the word STORM to NGRID (64743).
- Use your mobile device to track outage information, report outages, view outage maps and storm-related safety tips through National Grid’s mobile site accessible at: ngrid.com/mobile.
- Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram, where we post all the latest storm and restoration updates.
Safety Tips:
- If you use a generator to supply power during an outage, be sure to operate it outdoors. Before operating generators, disconnect from National Grid’s system by shutting off the main breaker located in the electric service panel. Failure to do this could jeopardize the safety of line crews and the public.
- Natural gas customers should closely inspect areas around and over gas meters, service hook-ups and vents for debris that could damage equipment or prevent CO from properly venting.
- If you suspect a natural gas leak:
- Get Out – All occupants should leave the house immediately. Do not use the telephone or light switches for any reason.
- Call Us – After leaving the house and reaching a safe environment, call the National Grid 24-hour gas emergency numbers at 1-800-640-1595
- Stay Out – Do not return to your home until National Grid tells you it is safe.
Author: Warwick Post Staff
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