States along the East Coast are preparing for a powerful nor'easter that could produce a record amount of snow. Blizzard warnings are in effect from Virginia to New England, and a state of emergency has been declared in Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York and Rhode Island. Maryland has mobilized the National Guard to help local agencies, New Jersey has issued travel restrictions on interstate highways, and Rhode Island has issued a travel ban on state roadways beginning at 8am.
The Governor says there is an exemption for essential workers.
In a briefing with reporters last night- Governor Dan McKee says the storm is likely to provide the most snow in the state’s history.
Providence has the potential for between 18 and 24 inches of snow. Mayor Jorge Elorza was joined by Police Chief Hugh Clements to urge residents to stay off the roads. The Mayor says he couldn’t stress that point enough. And, he warned that failure to obey the parking ban in the city will cost you. The ticket alone is 120 dollars. Then add to that the actual price of the tow.
The Westerly area could get between 12 and 18 inches before the storm passes further out to sea.
The snow will end over most of the state tonight but it will turn colder with the lows overnight in the single numbers.
Sunday we will see partly sunny weather with the hi in the 20s.
Monday’s highs will be in the low 30s.
(Photo by KEREM YUCEL/AFP via Getty Images)