Severe T-Storm Chance Friday before Perfect Weather for July 4 Weekend in RI

RHODE ISLAND—Fourth of July celebrations in Rhode Island are poised to be framed by stunning, sunny weather all weekend. But not before a possible severe thunderstorm on Friday afternoon.

The National Weather Service is warning Rhode Islanders of showers and thunderstorms that will develop in the afternoon.

The storms will be scattered, which means some areas could end up unscathed while others will get hammered by rain and possibly hail.

Conditions are ripe for powerful storms, including large hail and even a brief isolated tornado are possible in western New England, according to the weather service.

It's highly unlikely that Rhode Island will see a tornado, but the possibility of one forming to our west is an indication of the strength behind the storms that will pass through beginning Friday afternoon into the evening hours.

The greatest concern is a line of showers moving from the west late in the afternoon.

"Dangerous cloud to ground lightning and heavy rainfall are the primary threats," the weather service saidin a Special Weather Statement on Friday morning.

Beyond tonight, things look terrific through the weekend. Forecasts call for a mostly sunny weekend with temperatures in the upper 70s to low 80s for most of the state (and as always, a bit cooler on the coast) and sunshine on Saturday, Sunday and Monday on Independence Day.

The conditions are ideal for fireworks, parades and cookouts. Plans not nailed down?

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