Burlington, Vermont – A rapid warmup is underway across northern Vermont, with temperatures climbing into the 40s today and surging into the 50s this weekend, accelerating snowmelt along the Interstate 89 corridor through Sunday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Burlington, highs Wednesday will reach the upper 30s to mid-40s across Chittenden, Washington and Rutland counties. After near-normal readings in the upper 20s to mid-30s Thursday, a stronger push of mild air arrives Saturday and Sunday, sending afternoon temperatures into the upper 40s and mid-50s.
The warming trend will be most noticeable along I-89 from Burlington to Montpelier and south toward White River Junction. Snowbanks will shrink quickly, and runoff may increase near storm drains and low-lying roads. Along U.S. 7 from Milton through Rutland, melting snow combined with mild afternoons could create standing water during peak heating hours.
Overnight lows will dip into the 20s and lower 30s through Thursday morning, which may allow refreezing on untreated surfaces before sunrise. Drivers should watch for isolated slick spots on bridges and shaded stretches of I-189 and VT-4.
By Saturday afternoon, temperatures will feel more like late April than early March. The extended stretch of mild weather could weaken river ice and increase flows on area streams.
The warming trend continues through Sunday evening, with additional updates possible if rapid snowmelt leads to water concerns near roadways or rivers.
