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Winter Storm Tuesday: Tough Commute Expected

[CREDIT: NWS] The National Weather Service warns of a hazardous Tuesday commute in its winter storm warning.

[CREDIT: NWS] The National Weather Service warns of a hazardous Tuesday commute in its winter storm warning.
[CREDIT: NWS] The National Weather Service warns of a hazardous Tuesday commute in its winter storm warning.
WARWICK, RI — There a winter storm Tuesday, with a Winter Storm Warning taking effect at 1 a.m. Tuesday, lasting through early Wednesday, expected to drop about 4-8 inches with wind gusts up to 50 mph.

The National Weather Service warns travel could be very difficult throughout the day, particularly the morning commute, with snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour at times. Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The heaviest snowfall is expected between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

In Warwick, the Warwick Police have announced a parking ban starting at 8 p.m. tonight, lasting till 8 p.m Wednesday. Several Rhode Island communities have also announced parking bans ahead of the storm, with a few service and school cancellations also listed, on the RI Broadcasters Association website.

Among the early cancellations is the Warwick School Committee meeting, scheduled for Tuesday night, now rescheduled for Thursday, Feb. 15.

Mayor Frank Picozzi wrote to followers on Facebook that predictions he’s seen for Warwick snowfall call for 7 to 10 inches of snow, and that the parking ban will be “strictly enforced.”
“This ban will be strictly enforced and cars will be towed if necessary. There will be no sanitation or recycling pickup tomorrow so there will be a one day delay for the remainder of the week. If your trash was picked up today, please make sure that your containers are put away. There is the potential for high wind gusts so be prepared in the event of a power outage.
I spoke to the Superintendent of schools this morning and she said that a decision of whether to cancel schools will be made later this afternoon and they will email and text parents. Please check on your elderly and handicapped neighbors,” Picozzi wrote.
If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency, the NWS recommends. Additional winter storm reminders:

What to do in an emergency:

First, do NOT call 911 to report a power outage.

Instead, contact RI Energy at 1-855-RIE-1102 (1-855-743-1102) To check the status of outages in your area, visit the RI Energy Power Outage Map.

For gas emergencies or leaks, call 800-640-1595 for 24-Hour Assistance

Also be sure to check batteries for radios, and charge up your cell phone in case of power loss.

Emergency Alerts:

RIBA – Make sure you’re signed up for text alerts from the Rhode Island Broadcasters Association for school, business, and organization closings. You’ll get emergency notifications direct to your phone or email. Check closings and delays here.

CodeRED – The City of Warwick’s CodeRED system distributes emergency messages via telephone to targeted areas or the entire City of Warwick. Register here.

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
  • Listen to NOAA radio: Check the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration radio frequency here.

Shovel safely

RIDOH reminds publci about blizzard health notes to remain safe during winter.
[CREDIT: NWS.gov]
Working in cold weather puts a tremendous strain on the body, even for people in good shape.
  • Take frequent breaks and don’t overexert yourself.
  • Make sure you dress properly for the conditions.
  • Wear several layers of lightweight clothing. Air is trapped between the layers to help keep the body warm.
  • Protect the extremities, such as the hands, feet and ears as they are the most susceptible to frostbite.
  • Wear a hat as a large percentage of the body’s heat is lost through the top of the head.

Be prepared for winter travel

Travel in winter can be extremely dangerous. The best thing to do is cancel any travel if winter weather will occur. However if you must travel, make sure you plan ahead:

  • Make sure other people know your travel plans and know how to contact you.
  • Travel in convoy with other vehicles if possible.
  • Keep a survival kit in you vehicle.
  • This kit should include items which include non-perishable food such as can goods or candy bars, extra clothes and blankets, a battery powered radio, a shovel, and sand and/or kitty litter for traction in case you’re stuck.
  • If stranded, the best thing to do in to stay in the vehicle.
  • Tie a bright colored cloth to the antenna so rescuers can find you.
  • Run the engine occasionally for heat making sure to keep the exhaust pipe clear.
  • Open windows occasionally for fresh air.

[CREDIT: NWS]

 

Rob Borkowski
Author: Rob Borkowski

Rob has worked as reporter and editor for several publications, including The Kent County Daily Times and Coventry Courier, before working for Gatehouse in MA then moving home with Patch Media. Now he's publisher and editor of WarwickPost.com. Contact him at [email protected] with tips, press releases, advertising inquiries, and concerns.

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