Rhode Island Issues Statewide Travel Ban Amid Blizzard Conditions and Whiteout Threats

Alert Details

The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA) has issued a Civil Emergency Message and a statewide travel ban. This alert is in response to expected blizzard conditions that pose an immediate threat to public safety. The emergency message was officially issued at 5:41 PM EST.

Affected Areas

The travel ban and emergency alert apply to the entire State of Rhode Island, specifically including the following counties and regions:

• Bristol
• Kent
• Newport
• Providence
• Washington

What You Should Do

Residents must adhere to the travel ban starting at 7:00 PM. RIEMA warns that whiteout conditions will make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening. Residents are advised to remain off the roads to ensure personal safety and to allow emergency services to operate. Additionally, residents should prepare for potential power outages as high winds may bring down tree branches and power lines.

Expected Conditions

The region is bracing for full blizzard conditions characterized by whiteout visibility. High winds are expected to significantly reduce visibility on roadways and could cause structural damage to trees and utility infrastructure.

Timeline

The travel ban is scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM EST today, February 22, 2026. The current emergency alert was issued at 5:41 PM EST and the initial notification period expires at 7:41 PM EST, though the travel ban remains the primary directive for the evening.