Providence, R.I. Digs Out From Three Feet of Snow
NYT Homepage
by Jenna Russell and Tom LiFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Providence, R.I., faced a historic snowstorm that dumped three feet of snow in just one day, breaking records and leaving residents and city officials grappling with the aftermath. The storm brought powdery snow that coated streets and neighborhoods, creating a mix of wonder and frustration. While some enjoyed the rare beauty, others struggled with the logistical challenges of clearing paths, towing vehicles, and managing daily life in a snowbound city.
The sheer volume of snow overwhelmed routine tasks, turning simple activities like towing abandoned cars into complex operations requiring police drones, mayor’s office coordination, and creative problem-solving. City crews worked tirelessly to clear roads and assist residents, but the scale of the storm stretched resources thin. Meanwhile, students at Brown University embraced the winter wonderland, skiing around campus and building snow sculptures, including one of the university’s bear mascot.
Despite the challenges, the storm united some residents in shared experiences—whether it was the joy of playing in the snow or the camaraderie of shoveling together. However, for many, the reality of digging out from three feet of snow highlighted the disruption extreme weather can bring to daily life and infrastructure. The situation underscored the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of such events.
This story matters because it illustrates how severe winter storms can impact communities, disrupt routines, and test local resources and leadership. It also captures the human experience—both the beauty and the struggle—that comes with such extreme weather events. For readers interested in news about climate impacts, urban preparedness, or community responses to natural disasters, this story offers a vivid snapshot of life after a record-breaking snowfall.
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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/24/2026