Is The First Big RI Snowstorm Of The Season Coming This Weekend?

RHODE ISLAND — After a historically warm December, the start of January could bring the first significant snowstorm of the season to much of Rhode Island this coming weekend.

While the storm is still several days away — meaning much can change on the track from now until Saturday night — the National Weather Service said on Monday, there are indications there could be a strong storm that moves up the coast and brings a mixture of heavy rain, snow and high easterly winds.

It's far too early to start talking accumulation numbers, but the NWS said a chance of snow moves in between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. on Saturday night, with easterly winds picking up to 28 mile-per-hour gusts along the coast.

Precipitation is forecast to continue into Sunday as winds roar as high as 40 mph.

One big question — which may not be answered until late in the work week — appears to be where a potential rain/snow line sets up in southern New England.

According to the National Weather Service, there is a 30-50 percent chance of snow in inland Rhode Island. A path directly over New England would likely bring rain to Newport, Block Island, and other coastal locations, with heavier snow amounts inland. A path farther east would bring more snow to the coast.

Temperatures are expected to be borderline for snow/rain throughout the storm, with a low of 28 degrees on Saturday night and a high of 37 degrees on Sunday.

Check back with Patch for storm updates throughout the week and for any event cancellations, snow emergency parking restrictions or other advisories.

Have a news tip? Email jimmy.bentley@patch.com.