Don’t let the calm skies fool you. If you’ve got plans on Wednesday night, especially along the I-95 corridor through Providence, you might want to cancel or rethink your route. The National Weather Service is warning that a volatile storm system is moving in fast, bringing the threat of sudden downpours, lightning, and dangerous driving conditions during the evening rush hour and beyond.
This isn’t just a drizzle. The setup involves a perfect clash of spring warmth and moisture, triggering what could be a rowdy line of thunderstorms starting Wednesday afternoon and gaining strength by nightfall. If you drive I-95 often, especially through downtown Providence, you’ll want to prepare for slow traffic, slick roads, and possible flooding in low-lying spots.
What’s Actually Happening?
Here’s a closer look at the setup behind this weather event:
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A surge of warm air (up to 74°F) is moving into Rhode Island during the day Wednesday
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At the same time, upper-level disturbances are bringing cooler air from above
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This clash creates an unstable atmosphere, which acts like a pressure cooker—primed to explode with thunderstorms
By 2 p.m. Wednesday, forecasters expect showers and isolated storms to start forming, with the most intense activity likely between 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. That’s prime commuting and dinner hour traffic, so conditions could get dangerous fast.
Where Will It Hit Hardest?
While all of Providence is under the umbrella of concern, the I-95 corridor—especially areas running through downtown, near on-ramps and exits—will be the highest-risk zone for weather-related delays.
Expect:
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Reduced visibility from heavy rain
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Risk of hydroplaning as water pools on roads
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Possible delays for public transit and slower traffic flows citywide
What About Overnight?
Even after the worst of the storms pass, light to moderate showers are expected to linger into the night, keeping roads wet and visibility lower than usual. Temperatures will drop slightly to around 58°F, but the humidity will remain, making it feel muggy overnight.
What’s Coming Next?
The stormy pattern doesn’t end Wednesday. More showers and possible storms are forecast to continue into Thursday, though the intensity will likely decrease. Highs will hover in the mid-60s. By the weekend, skies should begin to clear, offering a much-needed weather break for Rhode Islanders.
Here’s How to Prepare:
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Leave work early if possible to avoid driving during the storm’s peak
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Secure outdoor items like trash bins and patio furniture—gusty winds could move them
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Charge your phone and stay informed via weather alerts
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Avoid flooded roads—turn around, don’t drown!
Final Take: Don’t Underestimate a Spring Storm
These early-season storms can be deceptively powerful. They arrive fast, drop a wall of water, and move on—but not before leaving behind traffic chaos and water-logged roads. It’s not just about rain—it’s about safety. And Wednesday night could get dicey fast.
