Yes, we’ve had a few cold days lately, but nothing like the frigid air we saw 83 years ago today.
On January 17, 1942, the temperature reached -28°F in Richmond, RI. (Note: A -25°F temperature reading was recorded at T.F. Greene Airport on February 5, 1996, where official readings are kept.) Meanwhile, the lowest reading in balmy Newport was -9°F in 1982. Perfect for a stroll on the beach.
By the way, these are air temperatures, not wind chill or feel like temps, so add the wind to these above and the answer is “wicked cold!”…