Frigid Wind Chills For Days Across RI Ahead Of Possible Weekend Snow

RHODE ISLAND — A relentless pattern of wind and cold will grip Rhode Island through at least Thursday, as temperatures fail to reach freezing and wind chills hover near zero in the early mornings, according to the National Weather Service.

The pattern could ease just a bit heading toward the weekend, with the chance of snow threatening the region on Saturday.

While that storm remains days from even forming, the short-term will include a punishing stretch of days with highs in the 20s and persistent wind gusts of 30 mph, making it feel 10 to 20 degrees colder than that.

Lows each night will be in the teens to low 20s, with wind chills near or below zero.

Though the freeze will not challenge records, it will be harsh for anyone — or any pets — who has to spend any extended time outdoors, with caution advised.

Friday will bring some relief, according to the NWS, with a high temperature of about 39 degrees with diminishing winds. Saturday will be cloudy with a high of 36 with light winds likely making it feel warmer than that in comparison to recent days.

The long-range forecast is calling for a chance of snow later Saturday, but the track of the storm is in considerable doubt this far out. The NWS on Tuesday morning pegged the chances of precipitation at only 30 percent, with the highest chance of snow between 11 p.m. and 1 a.m.

A change in the storm's trajectory north could bring significant snow to southern New England.

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