NWS: RI Flood Watch, Northern RI Tornado Watch

RHODE ISLAND – The National Weather Service warns of statewide flooding and a tornado watch for northern Rhode Island today as a storm system strengthens over the region.

For most of Rhode Island, a flood watch is in effect as heavy rain continues today into the evening, causing excessive runoff that could result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas, the weather service warns.

Flash flooding is possible today with a storm-total rainfall of 2 to 4 inches across the watch area, but localized amounts in excess of 4-6 inches is possible especially where thunderstorms develop and move over the same areas, according to the NWS.

The weather service advises Rhode Islanders to monitor continuing forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. “Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop,” according to the watch statement.

The tornado watch, announced by the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency this morning, will remain in effect through 3 p.m. today in norther Rhode Island/Providence County, as well as in Massachusetts and Connecticut.

A watch is a notice that a particular weather event could take place. A warning is a notice that the event in question is occurring or imminent.

Safety rules to follow during a tornado from the RI Emergency Management Agency:

 Signs that a tornado is approaching:

Look for the following danger signs: dark, often greenish or yellowish sky; large hail; large, dark, low-lying clouds; or a loud roar (like a freight train).

If you are inside a building:

1. Go to a designated shelter area or to the lowest building level (i.e. a basement).

2. If there is no basement, go to the center of an interior room on the lowest level of the building.

3. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck. If you are in a trailer or mobile home: Get out the trailer/mobile home and go to the lowest floor of the closest building.

If you are outside:  

1. Get into a car and drive to the closest storm shelter.

2. If you cannot get to a storm shelter, stay in the car with your seatbelt on.

3. Cover your head with your hands

For more information on what to do after a tornado, visit RIEMA’s tornado preparedness information page.