PROVIDENCE – Rhode Island should get its first significant rain in 44 days Thursday, potentially easing the dry conditions that have led to multiple brush fires over the past several weeks, according to the National Weather Service.
“A much needed widespread” rainfall of a half inch to more than an inch of rain is “on tap” for Thursday and could continue into Friday, the weather service says in its forecast discussion . “This should result in significant easing of the current Fire Weather concerns.”
Wildfire risk remains high in Rhode Island
With Rhode Island in a drought , the weather service has posted multiple Red Flag warnings and special weather statements warning of the fire risk in recent weeks.
Cranston Fire Chief Robert Ryan is among those grateful for the rainy forecast. “The rain coming Thursday and Friday should help,” Ryan said. “It’s much welcomed.”
Brush fire in Cranston
On Monday night into Tuesday, firefighters in Cranston , with help from other departments, fought a large brush fire off Roue 295. Smoke got so thick, a section of Route 295 had to be shut down, Ryan said.