McKee Administration Outlines Preparations Ahead of Forecasted Nor’easter
Published on Friday, September 25, 2026
PROVIDENCE, RI — Today, Governor Dan McKee was joined by Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency Director Marc Pappas, Rhode Island Department of Transportation Interim Director Bob Rocchio, and Rhode Island Energy President Greg Cornett to outline preparations happening across the state in anticipation of the Nor’easter, which is expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds to Rhode Island and other parts of New England.
“We’re keeping a close eye on this storm and making sure our teams are ready for whatever it brings,” said Governor Dan McKee. “RIEMA has been staying in regular contact with local emergency managers and public safety partners, while RIDOT has been preparing roads and crews for heavy rain and flooding. Rhode Islanders should stay informed, and if you must be on the roads during heavy rain, use extra caution and never drive through flooded roadways.”
Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT)
RIDOT has been inspecting roadways and cleaning catch basins where necessary, and readying vehicles and portable equipment such as chippers, chainsaws, and generators. The Department is closely monitoring forecasts and will be ready to call in crews as needed throughout the weekend to address any issues with street flooding or downed limbs or trees. Additionally, RIDOT project and construction managers are working collaboratively to review storm preparations with road and bridge contractors to make sure drainage systems are functioning properly, to check erosion controls, and to secure anything that could be affected by high winds.
Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA)
RIEMA is actively monitoring the forecast and coordinating with state and local partners to prepare for the potential impacts of heavy rain, strong winds, and coastal flooding. RIEMA is reviewing response plans, staying in close communication with local emergency managers and public safety partners, and preparing to support communities if conditions worsen.
Rhode Islanders can take simple steps now to prepare by securing outdoor items, charging phones and essential devices, checking emergency supplies and medications, and making sure they have multiple ways to receive weather and emergency alerts. Residents should also avoid unnecessary travel during the storm, never drive through flooded roadways, and check on neighbors, particularly older adults and those who may need additional assistance.
“A few simple steps taken now can make a big difference when severe weather arrives,” said RIEMA Director Marc Pappas.
Rhode Island Energy
Rhode Island Energy is fully staffed and has additional crews ready to respond throughout the storm.
While most Rhode Island homes are now equipped with smart meters that will automatically detect and report outages, if you lose power, you can still notify Rhode Island Energy through these options:
- Report it online at RIEnergy.com/outage
- Text OUTAGE to 743674 (RIEMSG) to report an outage
- Text STATUS to 743674 (RIEMSG) to check the status of an outage
- Need outage info? Our online map shows current outages and estimated restoration times:
- Call our Contact Center at 1-855-743-1101
Additionally, the Office of Energy Resources is in close contact with Rhode Island Energy, Clear River Electric & Water District, Block Island Utility District, and the state's delivered fuel terminals to monitor the storm’s impact on power and fuel supplies across the state.
Rhode Island Executive Office of Housing
In addition to shelters operating during their normal hours, which can be found here: https://housing.ri.gov/resources/individuals-experiencing-homelessness, four shelters will be operating with extended hours – no referral is needed:
Crossroads - 160 Broad Street, Providence, RI
Opening: Friday, September 25
Hours: Open 24 hours through Sunday, September 27
Mathewson Street Church - 134 Mathewson Street, Providence, RI
Opening: Friday, September 25
Hours: Open 24 hours through Sunday, September 27
Emmanuel House - 239 Public Street, Providence, RI
Opening: Friday, September 25
Hours: Open 24 hours through Sunday, September 27
Providence Rescue Mission - 627 Cranston Street, Providence, RI
Opening: Friday, September 25
Hours: Open 24 hours through Monday, September 28