NARRAGANSETT, R.I. (WPRI) — Thousands of Rhode Islanders packed the state's beaches on Wednesday, seeking relief from an ongoing heat wave.
The state saw unprecedented traffic backups, especially near the coast, and most beach parking lots were at capacity long before noon.
Logan Caldera told 12 News Scarborough State Beach was the busiest he's ever seen it, especially for a weekday.
"It's just crazy," said Caldera, who works at Scarborough. "We've never been this swamped."
The crowded beaches were also likely the result of Wednesday being Juneteenth. The state holiday gave some Rhode Islanders the day off of work and a rare weekday opportunity to head to their favorite beach.
Ocean, Bay & Beach // A look at the conditions at the coast »
The DEM encourages everyone to purchase a parking pass at least 24 hours in advance to prevent traffic backups and to check the status of the state's busiest beaches before leaving the house.
The oppressive heat and humidity is expected to continue through at least Thursday, with temperatures expected to top 90 degrees for the third day in a row.
The R.I. Department of Environmental Management issued an Air Quality Alert for Providence, Kent and Bristol counties from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday.
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