Vermont greets the morning under low clouds, but the air feels different today. After days of stubborn cold, temperatures finally climb, hinting at a short-lived January thaw.
Across Burlington and the Champlain Valley, morning overcast gradually thins. Thermometers rise several degrees, reaching above freezing in some spots by afternoon. That marks the first time since late December that highs push past 30 degrees. For early January 2026, that’s a notable shift.
Northern New York follows a similar trend, though colder pockets linger north of the St. Lawrence Valley. Even there, readings run several degrees above normal. Side streets stay damp, and melting snow creates slick patches where shade holds onto ice. Drivers should slow down, especially near intersections and school zones.
This mild break doesn’t signal winter’s exit. Meteorologists continue tracking a more active pattern later this week. Clouds return Wednesday night, followed by increasing chances for snow showers by Thursday and Friday. Any leftover moisture on roads could refreeze after sunset as temperatures dip again.
By the weekend, winter regains control. Light snow becomes more likely, especially in higher elevations and across northern Vermont. Winds turn brisk, and daytime highs fall back toward seasonal levels. That warm-to-cold transition raises the risk for black ice, particularly during evening travel.
For now, enjoy the brief pause from deep cold. Keep coats handy, but plan for changing conditions as the week unfolds. Conditions may deteriorate quickly once colder air returns, after all.
