Burlington, Vermont – Hikers and boaters across northern New York and Vermont could face dangerously cold and wet conditions Sunday as strong winds and steady rain create near-hypothermia risks in the mountains and across Lake Champlain.
According to the National Weather Service in Burlington, summit wind chills early Sunday dropped into the upper teens and 20s across higher elevations including Mount Mansfield and Mount Marcy. Wind gusts above 50 mph were recorded on exposed summits, while periods of rain and temperatures in the 30s and 40s continued through much of the day.
Forecasters say another round of rain is expected early Memorial Day morning before drier and calmer weather gradually returns Monday afternoon. Along Lake Champlain, gusts between 25 and 35 mph may continue creating rough boating conditions through tonight, especially across the broader northern waters. Outdoor recreation areas across the Green Mountains, Adirondacks and Northeast Kingdom could remain slippery and hazardous for hikers through Monday morning.
Temperatures near lake level are expected to remain in the upper 40s and lower 50s Sunday before warming into the upper 50s and low 60s Monday afternoon. Emergency officials urge anyone recreating outdoors to dress in waterproof layers and avoid prolonged exposure to cold wind and rain.
Conditions improve significantly by late Monday as winds weaken and dry weather returns heading into the latter half of the holiday weekend. Additional advisories may still be issued if rain bands intensify overnight.
