It looked like the real thing, but maybe they got it wrong. The National Weather Service downgraded its winter storm watch for today to a simple advisory. Snowfall prediction fell to 3 to 5 inches, and even that’s looking iffy.

This weather situation is developing quickly and is subject to change. We’ll keep an eye on it and update.

UPDATE, THURSDAY, FEB. 18TH: Heavy snow predictions were dropped NWS guidance downgraded this event to a “Winter Weather Watch.” It may be slippery, and you will need to be cautious. But closings, like those enacted by RIOC, are unlikely in most places. The eager to stay home state agency also rushed parking restrictions, which are now in force.

Expect wintery conditions tonight and Friday with a wintry mix of ice and rain possible as Friday introduces a gradual warming trend.

End of Update

UPDATE, WEDNESDAY, FEB. 17TH: Although there will be some flurries before dawn on Thursday, the main force of the storm moves in during the day. With temperatures hanging around the upper 20s, accumulations of 3 to 5 inches expected during the day with another 1 to 5 in the evening before it tapers off.

On the plus side, high winds will not accompany the storm, making it a great day for snowmen and sledding.

Also, a warming trend seeps in by Friday. Highs for the next ten days will be above freezing and in the 40s consistently starting Monday.

Looking ahead: Expect RIOC to invoke parking restrictions sometime today.

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