Hurricane Joaquin Coming up RI Coastline Monday Night

Forecasters say the latest models for Hurricane Joaquin, still at a Category 4, show it tracking further offshore.

While a direct hit to Rhode Island or anywhere along the East Coast is unlikely at this point, we will be feeling the effects of it here in the state as it approaches early next week even if the storm is further offshore.

The storm has shifted more east. The National Weather Service says it’s becoming more likely with time the track will continue to be shifted farther east and the National Hurricane Center says Friday night and Saturday we could see the storm move toward the north or northeast.

While the threat of direct impacts on the East Coast from the Carolinas to mid-Atlantic states is decreasing, the National Hurricane Center says there’s still uncertainty as to how close the storm could come to southeastern New England and Cape Cod over the next several days.

Residents living in those areas should continue to monitor the path of Hurricane Joaquin.

WJAR Channel 10 Meteorologist Kelly Love, said Friday morning the storm is going to continue to move north and east over the weekend and should pass off Rhode Island’s coast sometime between Monday and Tuesday.

However Joaquin tracks, expect strong onshore winds with minor to moderate coastal flooding throughout the weekend. In addition, very heavy rains not associated with Joaquin are expected to produce some flooding.

Wind and coastal advisories are up from Cape Cod up through New Hampshire (see image above for map of area impacted).

Here’s what to expect Friday:

• Potential Flooding: Another day of rain, heavy at times, potentially producing street flooding and possible minor coastal flooding afternoon.

• Strong Winds: Expect strong winds across the state, gusting upwards of 35 mph.