Tornado Warning Issued In RI's Northeastern Providence County

SMITHFIELD, RI — A tornado warning was issued Wednesday evening for northeastern Providence County in Rhode Island, as well as southeastern Massachusetts.

A severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located over Smithfield, or near Johnston, moving east at 25 mph, the National Weather Service said around 4:40 p.m. Wednesday. Radar showed rotation.

"Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely," the agency said.

This storm, described by the agency as "dangerous," will be near Providence, Pawtucket, Cumberland, North Providence, Johnston, North Attleborough, Attleboro, Smithfield, Lincoln, and Central Falls around 4:45 p.m., the agency said, followed by Seekonk around 4:50 p.m.

The warning was in effect for west-central Bristol County in southeastern Massachusetts as well.

The tornado warning was in effect for Pawtucket North Attleborough and Central Falls until at least 5:15 p.m., the weather service said, adding that it continued for Brockton, Attleboro and Woonsocket until 5:45 p.m.

Tornado Warning including Brockton MA, Attleboro MA and Woonsocket RI until 5:45 PM EDT pic.twitter.com/hHAYO1M9gG
— NWS Boston (@NWSBoston) September 13, 2023

People were advised to take cover in a basement or interior room of a sturdy building.