Providence Snowstorm Breaks 1978 Blizzard Record

The latest storm dumped over 32 inches of snow, surpassing the previous record set during the infamous Blizzard of '78.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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A powerful snowstorm hit Providence, Rhode Island on February 23, 2026, setting a new single-day snowfall record of 32.8 inches. This surpassed the previous record of 28.6 inches set during the historic Blizzard of 1978.

Why it matters

The Blizzard of '78 is considered one of the worst winter storms to ever hit the Northeast, causing widespread damage and disruption. This new record-breaking storm demonstrates the increasing intensity and frequency of extreme weather events due to climate change, underscoring the need for improved infrastructure and emergency preparedness.

The details

As of 1 p.m. on February 23rd, snowfall at T.F. Green International Airport in Providence had reached 32.8 inches, breaking the previous single-day record of 28.6 inches set during the infamous Blizzard of 1978. The storm brought heavy, wet snow that caused power outages and hazardous travel conditions across the region.

  • The snowstorm hit Providence, Rhode Island on February 23, 2026.
  • As of 1 p.m. on February 23rd, the snowfall total reached 32.8 inches.

The players

Daniel McKee

The Governor of Rhode Island, who is expected to provide an update on the storm.

T.F. Green International Airport

The airport in Providence, Rhode Island where the record-breaking snowfall was measured.

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What’s next

Governor Daniel McKee is expected to give an update on the storm and the state's response efforts this afternoon.

The takeaway

This record-breaking snowstorm in Providence underscores the growing threat of extreme weather events driven by climate change, and the need for communities to invest in resilient infrastructure and emergency preparedness to protect public safety.