High Winds Predicted for Smithfield This Afternoon

Welcome to Rhode Island, where, if the weather doesn't suit you, all you need do is wait a little while — and sometimes when you're perfectly happy with the weather.

The National Weather Service has issued a Special Weather Statement warning of a strong cold front that will work across New England this afternoon, dropping today's balmy high-50s temperatures and creating some strong winds.

There's an 80 percent chance of rain this afternoon, and west winds at 11 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 40 to 50 mph, between 4 and 7 p.m. today.

Smithfield's Emergency Management Agency will monitor the area for power outages, said spokesman Todd Manni.