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Winter Storm Watch in Effect Wednesday for Fourth March Nor’easter

[CREDIT: NWS] The National Weather Service forecasts a fourth Nor'easter for Wednesday.
[CREDIT: NWS] The National Weather Service forecasts a fourth Nor’easter for Wednesday.
WARWICK, RI — The month’s fourth Nor’easter is on its way Wednesday morning, and the National Weather Service has issued a handy Winter Storm Watch to keep us on our toes for the latest storm.

The area has already had three Nor’easters in March. The storm watch for this one goes into effect Wednesday morning and lasts through Thursday morning. The watch has been issued for portions of northern Connecticut, central, eastern, northeastern, southeastern and western Massachusetts and northern and southern Rhode Island.

Total snow accumulations of 5 to 8 inches, with localized amounts up to 11 inches, are possible as a result of the storm.

The NWS warns the public to plan on difficult travel conditions. Heavy wet snow combined with gusty northeast winds may result in downed  tree branches and limbs with possible power outages. Snow heavy at times may yield significant reductions in visibility.

What to do in case of emergencies:

This expected storm raises the possibility of electrical outages — and a reminder of how to handle them.

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

Instead, 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.

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

By now, we’re all used to the incoming winter storm drill — here it is once again:

Emergency Alerts:

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. Check closings and delays here.

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.

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
  • Serve RI is looking for volunteers to help neighbors in need shovel out after upcoming snowfall. You can sign up here.  You can ask for their help at at 401-331-2298. For all other needs, people should call United Way-2-1-1.

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

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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