By Rhode Island State Archives
Significant snow leads to clean-up efforts
Even when storms do not create disaster, state government works to ensure safety on roads, including Rhode Island’s main airport.
The Independent Man looks over Providence
Snow glistens across the State House lawn in this street view photograph following a mid-twentieth century storm.
Blizzard of 1888 pamphlet
Blizzard of 1888 pamphlet
Soldiers prepare for a snowball fight
These men were part of the 1st RI U.S. Volunteer Infantry at Camp Fornace in 1899.
This report was issued following the effects of Hurricane Carol earlier that year.
Rhode Islanders called the storm a “monster.” It ripped apart homes and boats, and left residents without electricity or water.
Over 200,000 Rhode Islanders were unable to work as crews attempted to assess the damage and begin the hard process of restoration.
Hurricane Damage, Cole River, 1938
With storm surges over 12 feet, substantial recovery efforts by the federal Works Progress Association and local Department of Public Works were vital in getting the state back on its feet.
The 1938 Hurricane left significant damage
Famous Pleasant View Hotel, located right on the beach, was left decimated.
The 1938 Hurricane left significant damage
In Warren, Rhode Island, a boat was forced onto Main St by the surging waters.
The 1938 Hurricane left significant damage
The Main dining hall at the beloved Rocky Point Amusement Park had to be reconstructed following the storm.
This Resolution expressed gratitude to RI National Guard in 1978 following one of the state's largest winter storms.
Response by the National Guard was vital during the 1978 Blizzard.
Response by the National Guard was vital during the 1978 Blizzard.
Fires present a serious risk to loss of land and property, and like other extreme and wild weather, can account for the loss of irreplaceable land, scenic areas, and personal material.
RI Memories, The Early Years
Rhode Island still faces danger from fires today, with recent brush fires in West Greenwich and Exeter burning over 500 acres of forest in 2023, the largest in the state since 1942.
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