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New Shoreham hurricane guide

New Shoreham is Block Island, and the town warns that the National Weather Service has said a major hurricane may strike the East Coast within the next several years. Its Hurricane Planning page says the town does not provide a pre-storm shelter, all ferries stop running well before a hurricane arrives, and Corn Neck Road may flood and cut off access to town. The town's hazard mitigation page lists hurricanes, high winds, and flooding among its hazards.

Checked on October 10, 2026

Every phone number and web address on this page was checked against official sources on that date. Details can change, especially during a storm. Always follow instructions from the Town of New Shoreham. In a life threatening emergency, call 911.

Official website: newshorehamri.gov

What to know in New Shoreham

  • Visitors are asked to leave the island if requested or if their lodging is not adequate for the storm. All ferries stop running and move to a safer harbor well before a hurricane arrives. Boaters should follow the Harbormaster's directive.
  • The town says to stay inside until the storm has passed, not to walk on beaches, break walls, or bluffs, and to have 3 to 5 days of food and water on hand.

Emergency and information numbers

Service Number Notes
Town Hall 401-466-3200 Office line. Not for emergencies.
Police Department 401-466-3220 Police dispatch. During a storm the town asks you to avoid routine calls so lines stay open for emergency requests.

Official alerts and information

  • New Shoreham CodeRED alerts: Free emergency alerts. The police department page links to the CodeRED sign up. Sign up before a storm. Website.
  • New Shoreham Hurricane Planning: The town's hurricane guidance for residents and visitors, including home preparedness steps. Website.
  • Hazard Mitigation and Flood Protection: Flood insurance and hazard mitigation information. The town says FEMA flood maps can be viewed on its site. Website.

Evacuation centers

Open only when announced

Evacuation centers open only when officials announce them, and not every center opens for every storm. Check the official list of open centers before you leave home. Bring your own bedding, food, water, and medicines.

The Town of New Shoreham says it does not provide a pre-storm shelter and encourages residents and visitors to plan their own accommodations and safety needs.

County services that cover New Shoreham

Washington County manages evacuation zones, evacuation centers, and emergency alerts for everyone who lives in New Shoreham. The Washington County guide has the full list of county numbers, radio stations, and recovery help.

  • Look up your evacuation zone
  • Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA): RIEMA asks people to sign up for CodeRED emergency notifications. Ask your town emergency manager which alert system your town uses. Website.

Sources

Checked on October 10, 2026. If a number or address here is wrong, please tell us at Keith@KMyers.me.