Rhode Island Crews Aided by Out-of-State Help After Historic Blizzard

RIEMA Director Marc Pappas discusses ongoing snow cleanup efforts across the state.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

More than a week after the historic Blizzard of '26 left Rhode Island buried in snow, crews from Pennsylvania, Vermont and Maine are still in the state working to clear away all the snow. Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency Director Marc Pappas joined a local news station to provide the latest details on the blizzard's aftermath and the state's ongoing cleanup efforts.

Why it matters

The Blizzard of '26 was a record-breaking winter storm that caused widespread damage and disruption across Rhode Island. The state's emergency management agency has been coordinating a massive cleanup operation, relying on assistance from neighboring states to help restore normalcy to impacted communities.

The details

Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency Director Marc Pappas appeared on a local news program to discuss the state's snow cleanup efforts following the historic Blizzard of '26. Pappas reported that crews from Pennsylvania, Vermont and Maine have been deployed to Rhode Island to supplement local resources and accelerate the removal of snow from roads, sidewalks and other public areas.

  • The Blizzard of '26 hit Rhode Island over a week ago.
  • Crews from other states have been in Rhode Island for more than a week assisting with cleanup.

The players

Marc Pappas

The director of the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency, overseeing the state's response and recovery efforts following the Blizzard of '26.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“More than a week later, crews from Pennsylvania, Vermont and Maine are still in Rhode Island and working to clear away all that snow.”

— Marc Pappas, Director, Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (WPRI.com)

What’s next

The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency will continue to coordinate with out-of-state crews to ensure all snow is cleared from roads, sidewalks and other public areas across the state.

The takeaway

The historic Blizzard of '26 has required an extensive, multi-state effort to restore normalcy to Rhode Island communities. The state's emergency management agency has leveraged resources from neighboring states to supplement local cleanup crews and accelerate the recovery process.