Update: Severe T-storm, rain, lightning hits

It's pouring, thundering, and, a couple of unprepared souls are splashing through sheet of water on the streets of downtown Providence. They said it was coming, and now, the National Weather Service a severe thunderstorm has hit the area. Expect heavy rains, gusty winds, street flooding and frequent cloud to ground lightning until at least 4:15 p.m. To quote NWS: Get indoors or inside a vehicle now! If you are caught outside ... stay away from isolated tall objects such as trees. Avoid open areas such as golf courses of ball fields. An urban and small stream flood advisory is also in effect for Kent, Providence, Newport and Washington Counties until 6:30 p.m. And for an idea of what's to come -- NWS warns some areas may see an inch of rain in less than 30 minutes. An umbrella might just be useless against rain like that. More... [read full story]