Thanksgiving in Rhode Island really does mark the start of winter’s chill. Daytime temperatures usually land in the mid-40s to low 50s, while nights drop into the 30s. Light snow sometimes shows up, but honestly, rain is more likely, especially by the coast.
You’ll spot differences depending on where you celebrate. Inland areas cool down faster and might wake up to frost or a dusting of snow, but coastal towns like Newport hang onto a bit more warmth, thanks to the ocean. This mix of crisp air and shifting conditions can make planning both travel and outdoor traditions a bit of a puzzle.
Knowing what’s likely helps you get ready for everything from family gatherings to holiday drives. When you compare Thanksgiving week to the rest of fall, check out regional patterns, and look at long-term climate trends, you’ll get a pretty good idea of what late November usually brings to Rhode Island.
Typical Thanksgiving Weather in Rhode Island
Late November in Rhode Island feels cool and damp, with shorter days and a better chance of unsettled skies. Expect chilly temperatures, some rain or light snow, and a mix of cloudy and partly sunny moments.
Average Temperatures in Late November
By Thanksgiving, Rhode Island’s humid continental climate brings in the cold. Daytime highs usually sit in the upper 40s °F (7–9 °C), while nighttime lows fall into the mid-30s °F (1–3 °C).
Coastal areas like Newport stay a little warmer because the ocean helps out. Inland spots such as Providence or northern towns feel colder, especially once the sun goes down.
Frost often coats the ground in the mornings, and you’ll probably see your breath outside. Sometimes highs reach the low 50s °F, but honestly, you shouldn’t expect anything too mild.
Precipitation Patterns During Thanksgiving
Rain shows up more often than snow in late November, though either can happen. Rhode Island gets about 3–4 inches of precipitation during the month, and Thanksgiving usually falls during a stretch of unsettled weather.
Light rain showers are pretty standard, and coastal areas can get drizzle from the ocean. Inland towns have a better shot at seeing the first measurable snowfall of the season.
Snowfall amounts tend to be light, with Providence getting about 1–2 inches by late November. A strong cold front can drop a quick coating of snow, especially overnight. If you’re traveling, keep in mind that wet roads and early frost can make for slick driving.
Cloud Cover and Sunshine Levels
As November rolls on, cloud cover increases and sunny days become rare. Rhode Island averages just 4–5 hours of sunshine per day around Thanksgiving.
Overcast skies are common, especially near Narragansett Bay and along the southern shoreline. Inland areas might get a quick burst of sun, but gray skies usually win out by afternoon.
The low sun angle, short daylight, and frequent clouds can make the holiday feel colder than the numbers say. Expect Thanksgiving to feel more cloudy and cool than bright and sunny.
Regional Variations Across Rhode Island
Thanksgiving weather in Rhode Island depends a lot on where you are. The Atlantic Ocean shapes things along the coast, while inland areas get cooler without that moderating water. Even a short drive can change the temperature, wind, or precipitation.
Coastal Versus Inland Conditions
Along the coast, the Atlantic Ocean keeps things a bit milder in late November. Daytime highs usually land in the mid to upper 40s °F, and nights stay just above freezing. Ocean air also lowers the odds of early snow, but rain and drizzle show up more often.
Inland areas cool down faster without the ocean’s help. Towns away from the shoreline might see highs closer to the low 40s °F, with nighttime lows dipping into the upper 20s °F. Frost and the occasional light snow happen more here than near the coast.
Wind makes a difference too. Coastal towns get stronger, steadier breezes, often between 10–15 mph, while inland spots are calmer. Sometimes, that wind makes the coast feel colder than the thermometer says, especially near open water.
Weather Differences in Providence, Newport, and Block Island
Providence sits inland and cools off more at night than the shoreline. Around Thanksgiving, highs average near 52°F and lows around 36°F. Light snow showers can show up, but rain is more likely.
Newport, right on the water, stays a bit warmer. Highs average near 52°F, and lows hover closer to 40°F. Winds can be strong, and the damp air makes it feel chilly even if the temperature’s above freezing.
Block Island is surrounded by the Atlantic, so it’s the mildest of the three. Highs reach the upper 40s °F, and lows rarely dip below 40°F. Snow almost never happens, but fog and gusty winds are frequent, which can mess with ferry travel.
With this mix of inland chill and coastal moderation, you’ll want to prep for different conditions depending on where you’re celebrating.
Thanksgiving Weather Compared to Other Fall Weeks
In Rhode Island, Thanksgiving weather often feels like a turning point. Early fall is usually milder and wetter, but by late November, colder air arrives, days get shorter, and winter starts to show up.
Early Fall Versus Late November
September usually brings highs in the low to mid-70s°F with comfortable evenings. Rain happens, but storms are usually quick and mild. By October, daytime highs fall into the 60s°F, and nights drop into the 40s°F.
By Thanksgiving, average highs slip into the upper 40s°F to low 50s°F, with lows in the 30s°F. That’s quite a change from the warm, pleasant days of September and early October.
Rainfall patterns shift too. Early fall is wetter overall, while late November brings fewer rain events but colder, sharper storms. Snow showers can pop up, but big snowfalls usually wait until December.
Comparison of Average Highs (°F):
- September: 72–74°F
- October: 60–64°F
- Thanksgiving week: 48–52°F
Transition to Winter After Thanksgiving
Once Thanksgiving is over, weather gets more unpredictable. Early December sometimes brings mild days, but cold fronts hit harder and more often. Rhode Island winters have cold coastal winds and occasional nor’easters, and the first real snow often shows up in December.
Thanksgiving week really sits at the edge of this seasonal change. You might get a crisp, sunny day, but you should also expect frosty mornings and a chance of wintry precipitation.
Snow on the ground rarely happens in late November, but odds pick up fast after that. By mid-December, highs average in the low 40s°F, and overnight lows sink into the 20s°F, signaling that true winter has arrived in Rhode Island.
Impact of Rhode Island’s Climate on Thanksgiving Weather
Thanksgiving in Rhode Island brings cool temperatures, variable skies, and the chance for rain or even early snow. The state’s inland climate patterns mix with the Atlantic Ocean’s influence to shape what you’ll get in late November.
Humid Continental Climate Influence
Rhode Island has a humid continental climate, so you really get all four seasons—cold winters and warm summers. By late November, this climate brings chilly days and crisp nights. Average highs around Thanksgiving usually land in the upper 40s°F, while lows dip into the 30s°F, so coats and layers are a must.
Precipitation is common now. You’ll probably see 7–9 days of measurable rain or snow in November, depending on where you are. Inland areas like Providence run a bit cooler and are more likely to get early snow than coastal towns.
Cloud cover matters too. Historical records say skies are partly cloudy to overcast nearly half the time in late fall. Less sunshine makes the air feel colder than the thermometer tells you.
These conditions show just how much the season is in flux. You’re moving from mild autumn days toward winter, so Thanksgiving often feels like the first real taste of what’s coming.
Role of the Atlantic Ocean
The Atlantic Ocean plays a big part in Rhode Island’s weather, especially near the coast. Water temperatures in late November usually sit in the upper 40s°F to low 50s°F, which keeps coastal towns like Newport a bit warmer than inland areas.
This means coastal highs can be a few degrees warmer, and nighttime lows don’t drop as fast. Newport often stays 2–4°F warmer than Providence in late fall.
The ocean brings moisture too. This bumps up the chances for rainy or damp conditions, especially when low-pressure systems move along the coast. Snow is less likely right by the shore in November, but inland areas can get a light accumulation.
Wind is a factor as well. Coastal spots see stronger average winds, often 8–10 mph, compared to inland speeds closer to 6–7 mph. That breeze makes the air feel colder and can change your outdoor plans.
All together, the ocean’s warmth and moisture create a Thanksgiving climate that’s cool, breezy, and a little unpredictable, with real differences between inland and coastal Rhode Island.
Travel and Outdoor Planning for Thanksgiving
Late November in Rhode Island usually means chilly air, short days, and the chance of rain or even light snow. You need to prep for changing weather and heavier holiday traffic.
What to Pack for Thanksgiving in Rhode Island
Daytime highs in late November usually fall in the mid-40s to low 50s °F, while nights can slip into the 30s. You’ll want layers so you can adjust as the temperature changes. A medium-weight coat, sweaters, and a waterproof jacket are all good ideas.
Bring comfortable walking shoes with decent traction, since rain can make sidewalks and trails slick. If you’re planning to be outside, gloves and a hat will help for evening events or waterfront walks.
A small umbrella or light rain shell comes in handy, since showers are common. If you’re visiting family, you might want to pack casual but warm clothes for indoor gatherings, especially if you’re staying in an older, drafty house.
If you’re in a rental or hotel, a travel blanket or extra layer can make things cozier. Rhode Island’s coastal air can feel cooler than inland spots, even if the temperature looks the same.
Travel Tips for Late November Weather
Thanksgiving week brings some of the busiest travel days of the year. Roads around Providence and I‑95 often jam up, especially the day before the holiday. Try to drive during off-peak hours, like early morning or late evening, to dodge the worst traffic.
Weather adds to the challenge. Rain is common, and sometimes snow showers pop up in late November. Check local forecasts from the National Weather Service before you head out.
If you’re flying, give yourself extra time at T.F. Green International Airport. Security lines and parking lots fill up quickly. Booking parking ahead can save you some stress.
If you’re exploring Rhode Island’s towns or beaches, keep in mind that daylight ends early. Sunset often comes before 4:30 p.m., so plan outdoor stuff earlier in the day. Carrying a flashlight or using your phone for light helps if you’re heading back after dark.
Thanksgiving Weather Trends and Historical Data
Thanksgiving in Rhode Island usually brings cool days, with temperatures hovering in the 40s and 50s, but past records show a big range. Rain is common, and snow has made appearances some years, causing travel headaches and a few memorable holiday stories.
Historical Temperature Records
Thanksgiving in Rhode Island usually lands right in that awkward shift from mild autumn to early winter. Daytime highs tend to hover somewhere between the mid-40s °F and low-50s °F.
At night, temps often drop into the 30s °F.
Some years, the weather goes to extremes. The warmest Thanksgivings have climbed up into the 60s °F.
Other years, the highs barely crawl out of the 20s °F.
Late November in southern New England can really keep you guessing.
Snow doesn’t show up all that often, but it’s not impossible. Sometimes, measurable snow falls right before or even on Thanksgiving.
Most years, you’ll just get cold rain instead.
November usually brings about 4 inches of rainfall across Rhode Island.
So, while you’ll probably need a jacket, don’t be shocked if the weather throws you a curveball—anything from odd warmth to biting cold can happen.
Notable Thanksgiving Weather Events
Thanksgiving in the Northeast sometimes brings wild weather, and Rhode Island has definitely seen its share of memorable storms. Old records talk about heavy snowfalls in parts of New England during late November storms back in the early 1900s. These storms messed up travel plans and made family gatherings tricky.
Closer to home, Rhode Islanders have dealt with heavy rain and coastal winds on Thanksgiving now and then. Strong nor’easters that skirt the coast can whip up gusty winds and bring that raw, damp cold, which really doesn’t make for easy traveling.
Even when big storms don’t show up, Thanksgiving here can get pretty cold. Some years, overnight temps have dropped into the teens, leaving roads icy for anyone heading out early.
It’s just a reminder, honestly, that while most Thanksgivings are pretty normal, this holiday always has the potential for a surprise weather twist. That can throw a wrench into travel or outdoor plans before you even realize it.