National Weather ServiceRhode IslandHigh Surf AdvisoryArchive to October 1, 2026
High Surf Advisories in Rhode Island
The National Weather Service issued 2 high surf advisories for Rhode Island in 2025 and 4 a year on average in 2008-2025; in 2021-2025 it had the 18th most of any state. 2026 through September: 2, 48% below the average of 4 for those months in 2008-2025. Block Island was covered most often (71 times since 2008).
How many high surf advisories does Rhode Island get?
Every high surf advisory that covered part of Rhode Island. 2026 is an outline: the year is not over.
The numbers
| Year | Count |
|---|---|
| 2026 (through September) | 2 |
| 2025 | 2 |
| 2024 | 4 |
| 2023 | 4 |
| 2022 | 4 |
| 2021 | 3 |
| 2020 | 11 |
| 2019 | 2 |
| 2018 | 4 |
| 2017 | 6 |
| 2016 | 1 |
| 2015 | 2 |
| 2014 | 2 |
| 2013 | 1 |
| 2012 | 4 |
| 2011 | 2 |
| 2010 | 5 |
| 2009 | 5 |
| 2008 | 9 |
Source: Iowa Environmental Mesonet archive of National Weather Service watches, warnings and advisories (VTEC); National Weather Service. Data as of October 1, 2026.
When in the year does Rhode Island get them?
Sum of 2008-2025; the busiest month is labelled.
Source: Iowa Environmental Mesonet archive of National Weather Service watches, warnings and advisories (VTEC); National Weather Service. Data as of October 1, 2026.
Where in Rhode Island?
| County or forecast zone | Since 2008 | Since 2023 | Last issued |
|---|---|---|---|
| Block Island | 71 | 12 | August 3, 2026 |
| Newport | 67 | 12 | August 3, 2026 |
| Washington | 67 | 12 | August 3, 2026 |
The NWS issues these products for counties or forecast zones; a zone can be part of a county or a mountain range.
Source: Iowa Environmental Mesonet archive of National Weather Service watches, warnings and advisories (VTEC); National Weather Service. Data as of October 1, 2026.
What is a high surf advisory?
A high surf advisory means large, dangerous breaking waves and strong currents along the shore. An advisory is issued for a hazard less serious than a warning that can still cause inconvenience or danger if people are not careful. The national record · Every warning type in Rhode Island.