Burlington, Vermont – Afternoon temperatures near 40 degrees will rise above freezing along I-89 starting Sunday.
According to the US National Weather Service in Burlington, a February thaw is developing after more than 20 consecutive days of below-freezing temperatures across much of northern Vermont and northern New York.
High temperatures are forecast to reach the mid-30s this weekend, with some locations potentially nearing 40 degrees by early next week. By midweek, highs could climb into the lower to mid-40s in parts of the Champlain Valley.
Forecast data shows Burlington reaching the mid-30s Saturday and upper 30s Sunday, with Montpelier, Rutland and St. Johnsbury following a similar warming trend. Plattsburgh, New York, is also expected to see temperatures moderate into the upper 30s and near 40 degrees.
The warming pattern marks a shift from persistent cold conditions that have dominated the region since late January. Forecasters indicate temperatures will continue rising gradually each day through at least midweek, with above-normal readings likely persisting beyond that period.
Roadways including I-89 between Burlington and Montpelier, I-91 in eastern Vermont and US-7 through the Champlain Valley may experience daytime melting followed by overnight refreezing where temperatures drop back into the 20s.
Commuters and students should watch for changing road conditions during early morning hours as the thaw begins.
