Nor’easter Brings Heavy Rain, Strong Winds to Rhode Island
A powerful nor’easter is currently impacting Rhode Island and the wider East Coast as of Saturday, September 26, 2026, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and coastal flooding. As of Saturday, September 26, 2026, 1,079 homes and businesses in Rhode Island are without power, representing 0.2% of customers tracked. The storm is expected to continue impacting the region through Sunday evening, with calmer weather anticipated on Monday, according to Fox News.
Official Statements and Emergency Response
former Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee was involved in outlining preparations for the nor’easter as of September 25, 2026. Governor McKee’s office has been coordinating with state agencies to ensure a swift response to the storm’s impact. Marc Pappas, Director of the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA), confirmed that emergency crews are deployed across the state to address immediate concerns and assist affected residents. Rhode Island Energy President Greg Cornett stated that crews have restored power to over 30,000 households and businesses from Friday night into Saturday late afternoon, with approximately 1,200 customers still without power as of Saturday evening. Cornett emphasized the ongoing efforts to restore power to all affected areas.
Background on Nor’easters and Rhode Island’s Preparedness
Nor’easters are synoptic-scale storms that typically form along the East Coast of North America and are named for the direction from which the strongest winds typically blow, from the northeast. These storms are known for bringing heavy precipitation, strong winds, and significant coastal impacts, including erosion and flooding. Rhode Island, with its extensive coastline, is particularly vulnerable to such weather events. The state has a history of implementing robust emergency preparedness measures to mitigate the effects of severe weather. The Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT), under Interim Director Robert Rocchio, has been actively involved in clearing roads and ensuring infrastructure remains accessible during the storm. RIDOT’s efforts are crucial for emergency vehicle access and public safety. The state’s emergency management protocols include pre-positioning resources, coordinating with utility companies like Rhode Island Energy, and issuing public advisories to ensure residents are informed and prepared. Previous severe weather events have highlighted the importance of these coordinated responses, leading to continuous improvements in the state’s disaster management strategies. For more information on Rhode Island’s emergency preparedness, residents can visit the official RIEMA website.
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