New record for July rainfall in RI

AP Graphic

Nearly 10 inches of rain has fallen in Providence during the month of July.

The Associated Press
Published: July 26, 2009

PROVIDENCE—This July has been the wettest on record in Rhode Island, with nearly 10 inches of rain falling in Providence.

Thursday’s storms sent the rainfall total above the old July record of just over 8 inches, which was set in 1976. This month’s total now stands at 9.8 inches.

National Weather Service meteorologist Alan Dunham says July may end up being one of the top 10 wettest months ever. To get on the list, the rainfall total would have to top the 10.75 inches that fell at T.F. Green Airport in Warwick in December 1969.

The rainiest month ever was October 2005, when 15.4 inches fell.

July also may turn out to be one of the coldest on record. The coolest average temperature in July for Rhode Island was 68 degrees in 1914. This July’s average is nearly 69 degrees.