Rhode Island travel ban remains as record blizzard buries state in 3 feet of snow

Rhode Island remains under a statewide travel ban after a historic blizzard dumped up to three feet of snow across parts of the state, paralysing roads, cutting power to tens of thousands, and forcing widespread closures.

Gov. confirmed that both the state of emergency and travel ban will remain in effect through Tuesday morning, with officials reassessing conditions as plow crews work overnight to clear roads.

Dubbed the “Blizzard of ’26,” the storm has already broken snowfall records previously set during the infamous Blizzard of 1978, making it one of the most significant winter weather events in Rhode Island history.

Is There Still a Travel Ban in Rhode Island?

Yes, the Rhode Island travel ban remains in effect.

Gov. McKee emphasised that the restriction is necessary to allow plow crews and emergency responders to operate safely. Officials warned that drivers violating the order could face fines. On Monday alone, Rhode Island State Police cited 34 drivers for ignoring the ban.

Speaking at a press conference at the headquarters in Cranston, McKee urged residents to stay home.

“People who are out there unnecessarily clogging our roads are putting others’ safety at risk,” he said.

The governor stated the ban will not be lifted until there are no remaining public safety concerns.

State of Emergency Extended Across Rhode Island

A state of emergency declared Sunday remains active statewide. State offices will remain closed through Tuesday afternoon due to blizzard conditions.

The Rhode Island Department of Transportation reported that approximately 500 plow trucks, state-operated and contracted vendors, are working around the clock. However, officials described severe challenges, including:

• Stuck or abandoned vehicles
• Downed trees and power lines
• Limited visibility
• Disabled tractor-trailers blocking highways

Interim DOT Director Robert Rocchio said cleanup will take time, noting that traffic cameras are snowed over and numerous signals remain offline due to damaged wires.

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Power Outages: 50,000 Customers in the Dark

At the height of the storm, approximately 50,000 customers of were without power.

Company President Greg Cornett said restoration crews were initially unable to begin repairs due to dangerous wind gusts. Damage assessments began late Monday afternoon as winds subsided.

“This will be a multi-day outage for some folks,” Cornett said, adding that power restoration could take up to 72 hours for certain areas, potentially extending into Thursday.

Hospitals, nursing homes, and critical substations are being prioritised before broader residential restoration begins. Additional crews from Pennsylvania are expected to assist, depending on I-95 road conditions.

How Much Snow Fell in Rhode Island?

According to the National Weather Service, snowfall totals reached up to three feet in some areas, smashing previous single-storm records.

The blizzard’s impact was particularly severe in coastal and central Rhode Island communities, including Narragansett and Providence, where snowfall overwhelmed infrastructure and emergency response efforts.

Officials described the storm as far more intense than a typical winter weather event.

“This is not a typical snowstorm, this is a blizzard,” Rocchio said.

Schools, Colleges and Government Offices Closed

Public and private schools across Rhode Island remain closed as recovery efforts continue.

The canceled all in-person and synchronous online classes for Tuesday. Multiple colleges and universities followed suit as hazardous travel conditions persist.

State offices are also closed through Tuesday afternoon.

National Guard Activated

The Rhode Island National Guard has been activated and stands ready to respond to emergencies. Officials say they are prepared to assist with stranded motorists, public safety incidents, and logistical support as needed.

Emergency Management Director Marc Pappas noted that plow crews in some cities and towns have become stuck themselves due to extreme snowfall and road blockages.

When Will the Rhode Island Travel Ban Be Lifted?

Gov. McKee said the ban will be reassessed Tuesday morning. Officials will evaluate:

• Road clearing progress
• Wind conditions
• Visibility levels
• Public safety risks

Authorities caution that lifting the ban too early could hinder recovery operations and endanger lives.

Residents are urged to monitor official state channels for updates.

FAQ: Rhode Island Travel Ban & Blizzard 2026

Is there currently a travel ban in Rhode Island?

Yes. Gov. Dan McKee confirmed the statewide travel ban remains in effect and will be reassessed Tuesday morning.

Why is the Rhode Island travel ban still in place?

The ban allows plow crews and emergency responders to safely clear roads and respond to incidents without interference from civilian traffic.

How much snow did Rhode Island get in the Blizzard of 2026?

Some areas recorded up to three feet of snow, breaking single-storm records previously set during the Blizzard of 1978.

How many people are without power in Rhode Island?

At the peak of the storm, around 50,000 Rhode Island Energy customers were without electricity.

When will power be restored in Rhode Island?

Officials estimate restoration could take up to 72 hours for some customers, depending on damage and access conditions.

Are Rhode Island schools closed?

Yes. Many public schools, colleges, and universities — including the University of Rhode Island — remain closed.

What happens if you violate the Rhode Island travel ban?

Drivers caught violating the travel ban may face fines. State Police have already issued citations to violators.

Is the Rhode Island National Guard activated?

Yes. The National Guard has been activated and is prepared to assist with emergency response operations.