Montpelier, Vermont – A thin glaze of ice is forming across central and northeastern Vermont early Saturday, creating slippery travel before the morning commute as freezing rain spreads across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Burlington, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 7 a.m. EST Saturday for portions of central, northwest, and northeast Vermont. The system could produce up to one-tenth of an inch of ice accumulation, while wind gusts reach 35 mph, increasing the risk of slick conditions on exposed roads and elevated surfaces.
Communities including Montpelier, St. Johnsbury, Newport, Stowe, Hardwick, Randolph, and Island Pond are within the advisory area. Even minor icing can quickly affect bridges and untreated roads, especially along corridors such as Interstate 89 near Montpelier and U.S. Route 2 across northern Vermont.
Transportation officials warn that freezing rain can create nearly invisible ice on pavement. Drivers should slow down, leave extra space between vehicles, and allow additional travel time early Saturday.
Residents heading outside should also watch for icy sidewalks, steps, and driveways.
The freezing rain threat should ease shortly after sunrise as precipitation tapers off, though slick spots may linger for several hours. Additional advisories could be issued if icing redevelops later this weekend.
