Community Corner

UPDATE: Driving Ban Lifted; Warming Centers Open

Gov. Chafee is restricting non-essential travel in the state.

UPDATE:  The driving ban has been lifted as of 4 p.m.

A statewide driving ban is still in effect while crews continue to clear roads across Rhode. This afternoon, Governor Lincoln Chafee declared several exemptions to the ban, specifically for those heading to shelters.

As of 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, almost 180,000 Rhode Islanders are without power – almost 37 percent of the state. In North Kingstown, 7,850 of 13,035 customers are powerless. According to National Grid spokesperson David Graves, many Rhode Islanders could be without power for several days.

Find out what's happening in North Kingstownwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

In anticipation of restoration delays, several warming centers have been set up in the area. Temperatures are expected to drop to around 11 tonight. Those without power can seek refuge at the following shelters:

  • Jamestown: Melrose Elementary School
  • Middletown: Gaudet Middle School
  • North Kingstown: Wickford Middle School
  • Tiverton: Tiverton Middle School
  • Wakefield: South Kingstown High School
  • Warwick: Warwick Vets High School
  • Westerly: Westerly Senior Center

Emergency shelters may not be able to provide adequate supplies of food, water and bedding, so individuals going to shelters should bring the following items with them:

Find out what's happening in North Kingstownwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

  • Pillows, blankets, sleeping bags, or air mattresses
  • Extra clothing, shoes, eyeglasses, etc.
  • Folding chairs, lawn chairs or cots
  • Personal hygiene supplies
  • Flashlights and batteries
  • Quiet games, books and favorite toys
  • Important papers
  • Prescription medications

Pets are not allowed in public shelters. Only daily living assistance animals can stay with their owner in the shelter.

Other community centers may open. Stay tuned for more updates. 


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