Rhode Island Blizzard of 2026 Breaks the ‘78 Snow Record With 33+ Inches as Whiteouts and Closures Spread Statewide
PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND — The Blizzard of 2026 has officially rewritten Rhode Island’s snowfall record books, with totals reported above 33 inches in the state and a new benchmark that surpasses the legendary Blizzard of 1978, which previously held the record at 28.6 inches.
Relentless snowfall and powerful winds continued to generate whiteout conditions across Rhode Island Monday afternoon, with deep drifts and impassable neighborhood streets reported as road crews struggled to keep up with the pace of accumulation.
Rhode Island Surpasses the Blizzard of 1978 Snowfall Record
The update marks a historic shift for the state’s weather history. By clearing the 1978 mark by nearly half a foot, the 2026 storm is being described as a once-in-a-generation event for Rhode Island, especially in and around Providence where the heaviest bands pushed totals beyond the 33-inch threshold.
Whiteout Conditions and Drifts Create Dangerous Travel
With wind-driven snow continuing, visibility dropped sharply at times, making it difficult for drivers to judge distance, see lane markings, or spot stalled vehicles. Snowfall intensity combined with gusty winds also contributed to rapid drifting, which can quickly refill recently plowed roads and bury smaller streets.
Residents reported that many neighborhood roads became effectively impassable, and even short trips turned risky as conditions shifted from block to block depending on blowing snow and drifting.
Blizzard Warning Timeline and What Residents Are Being Told
A Blizzard Warning remained in effect into Tuesday morning, with the worst conditions expected to gradually ease overnight as the storm pulls away. Officials continued urging residents to stay off the roads and avoid unnecessary travel until plows can safely clear streets buried under historic snowfall.
What to Do Next If You’re Stuck or Preparing for Cleanup
As conditions improve, the biggest hazards often shift to cleanup and recovery. Residents typically face blocked driveways, snowbanks at intersections, and reduced visibility around corners. If you must go out, give plows space, watch for sudden whiteouts, and plan extra time.
What are conditions like where you are in Rhode Island right now—are roads still blocked in your area, and how much snow did you measure? Share your update and join the conversation at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
