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Snowfall and strong winds are expected to pick up Friday evening, the National Weather Service predicts.  Snow accumulation is estimated at around two feet for Rhode Island, including Aquidneck Island.  Heavy snow is expected until Saturday morning. 

The NWS reports that blizzard conditions and wind gusts up to 60 mph will make for dangerous travel with visibilities near zero in white-out conditions.

Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick declared a travel ban after 4 p.m. for his state and said violators could be fined up to $500 or up to a year in jail.

The NWS has also issued a coastal flood advisory for the area that is in effect from 5 p.m. Friday until 8 a.m. Saturday.