Blizzard warning still in effect for Northern R.I., where up to a foot of snow expected

THE NATIONAL WEATHER Service said between 6-8 inches of snow is expected from Tuesday's storm, with less on Block Island and Newport. / COURTESY NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE
THE NATIONAL WEATHER Service said between 6-8 inches of snow is expected from Tuesday's storm, with less on Block Island and Newport. / COURTESY NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE

(Updated 11:54 a.m., 1:26 and 2:20 p.m.)
PROVIDENCE – A blizzard warning remains in effect for Northern Rhode Island, which could receive up to 12 inches of snow by the time the storm ends on Tuesday.
National Weather Service meteorologist Stephanie Dunten said a heavy band of snow came through the state this morning, and brought snowfall of 2-4 inches per hour at times.
A mix of rain and sleet is expected later this afternoon, which will bring snow totals down. Between 5 and 8 inches of snow is expected to fall in the middle of the state, but a foot is expected around the Massachusetts and Connecticut borders, she said. Less snow is expected along the coast, up to 3 inches.
Aside from snow, high wind could spark power outages. Dunten said gusts of 35-50 mph are expected this afternoon.
“Be prepared. Hunker down,” Dunten said.
The forecast prompted schools and businesses around the state to cancel classes or close in advance of the storm. Parking bans are in effect around the state. Flights have been cancelled at T.F. Green Airport.
The R.I. State Police reported that traffic was light this morning and that there were no major incidents as of 1 p.m., and a dozen minor accidents. The R.I. Public Transit Authority is posting updates on its website and social media. RIPTA said it suspending service as of 1 p.m. due to deteriorating road conditions.
National Grid said more than 8,000 customers were without power early Tuesday afternoon, the majority in Providence County. That number was reduced to approximately 1,800 by 2:20 p.m.

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