This is why...

I am happy to have studded tires on the bike right now. W/O them the ride home would be pretty f'n sketchy!

Statement as of 1:27 PM EST on February 2, 2011

Special Weather Statement

... Flash freeze expected across most of Rhode Island this afternoon...

Sharply colder air will move south across Rhode Island this
afternoon and cause wet and slushy surfaces to freeze.
Temperatures may drop 10 degrees within an hours time. The drop
below freezing is expected to take place soon after 2 PM in
Providence. The freezing line is expected to reach the South Coast
of Rhode Island by around 4 PM.

Driving and walking surfaces may quickly become icy this
afternoon... and both drivers and walkers are urged to use extra caution.

Thompson

Ya know - for as much as I talk about them - it could be worse. Right? At least I'm positive about something.