Driver sparks outrage after driving snow-covered SUV after record snowfall in Rhode Island By Bruna
3 min read
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A driver caused widespread outrage when he was caught driving a vehicle covered in a thick layer of snow and ice on a street in Rhode Island. The episode occurred on Tuesday (24), just hours after the lifting of the traffic ban imposed by the state during the most intense snowfall in decades. The recording, released by local broadcaster WPRI, shows the driver relying only on a small clean area on the windshield to see, while the rest of the car remained buried under accumulated snow.
The storm, which began on Sunday (22) and lasted until Monday (23), brought record accumulations of snow in several parts of the state. Em Providence, the capital, recorded 37.9 inches (about 96 cm) at T.F. Green Airport, surpassing the previous record for a single storm. Ventos strong conditions worsened conditions, creating whiteouts in many areas and leading to the closure of roads and essential services.
The traffic ban, declared by Governor Dan McKee on Sunday night, restricted the movement of commercial vehicles from 5pm and all vehicles from 7pm, with exceptions only for emergencies. The measure aimed to allow cleaning teams to work without obstacles. The ban was lifted at noon on Tuesday, but authorities continued to recommend that residents avoid unnecessary travel.
Intense reactions on social media
The video’s publication on Facebook accumulated millions of views in just a few hours. Internautas expressed anger at the driver’s attitude, highlighting the risk to other people’s safety on roads that were still slippery and covered in mud and ice. Comentários pointed out the lack of basic care behind the wheel after an extreme weather event.
Many reinforced that common sense should prevail even with the official end of the restriction. Críticas focused on the recklessness of not removing all the snow before driving, which compromises visibility and control of the vehicle.
Traffic regulations and risks involved
Rhode Island state law requires complete removal of snow and ice from vehicles before driving. Limpar only a small portion of the windshield does not meet the legal requirement and increases traffic hazards. Condições such as these facilitate accidents, especially on roads with layers of remaining ice.
Local authorities reiterated guidelines for drivers to thoroughly clean their vehicles. Dirigir under these conditions may result in fines or liability in the event of incidents.
Driver goes viral after driving with car covered in ice during historic snowfall in the USA.https://t.co/gIWoEfmLMk pic.twitter.com/h7iAzEct5O
—Page Not Found (@FernandoMPage)February 26, 2026
Context of the record snowfall
The weather phenomenon affected the entire Nordeste of the Estados Unidos, with severe impacts on Rhode Island. Acúmulos exceeding 90 cm occurred in several locations, accompanied by gusts of wind that hampered rescue and cleaning operations. The governor urged residents to drive only when absolutely necessary.
Related cases included stuck vehicles and power problems in homes. Equipes emergency services worked continuously to restore basic services after the storm’s peak.
Post-storm safety recommendations
Weather and traffic experts emphasize basic precautions after heavy snowfall. Remover all snow on the roof, hood, headlights and license plates prevents blocks from falling during movement and causing accidents. Verificar tire, brake and fluid levels are also essential in cold temperatures.
Residents should monitor official updates on road conditions. Evitar unnecessary short trips allow removal machines to work more efficiently on side streets.
Impact on the local community
The blizzard paralyzed daily activities for days, with schools closed and public services suspended. Após the lifting of the ban, the focus shifted to gradual recovery. Muitos residents shared isolation experiences during the event, highlighting the need to prepare for harsh winters.
Videos and reports continue to circulate, serving as a warning about the dangers of underestimating traces of snow on vehicles. The identity of the driver caught has not been released by authorities at this time.
