RIEMA: Rhode Islanders urged to brace for extreme cold

CRANSTON – The R.I. Emergency Management Agency said arctic air is expected to hit southern New England this weekend, and it is urging residents to prepare now for potentially record lows.
RIEMA said the National Weather Service said it is highly likely that temperatures will fall into the teens and single digits starting Saturday afternoon. Temperatures then could fall as low as 20 below zero throughout Rhode Island Saturday night, then return to single numbers and teens Sunday.

“We are expecting dangerously cold temperatures this weekend,” Gov. Gina M. Raimondo said in a statement. “My number one priority as governor is your safety, and the best way to stay safe this weekend is by limiting yourself to the extreme cold by staying indoors as much as possible. I also ask that you please check on neighbors and loved ones and make sure they have everything they need to stay safe and warm.”
Peter Gaynor, RIEMA director, said people need to cover themselves up as much as possible if they venture outside as Rhode Island could “potentially see record low temperatures.”
“Additionally, make sure that you have sufficient heating fuel for the next few days. If you experience a loss of your heating source and need emergency heating, contact your local municipalities or dial 2-1-1,” Gaynor said.

Due to the forecast of extreme cold, several communities will have warming centers open to the public for those who need to seek temporary shelter. Information on warming centers can be found at riema.ri.gov/warmingcenters.

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