Burlington, Vermont – Travel across the Champlain Valley and northern Green Mountains could deteriorate rapidly late Tuesday afternoon as heavy snow develops just ahead of the evening commute, increasing the risk for slick roads and sudden visibility drops.
According to the National Weather Service in Burlington, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 2 p.m. Tuesday through 7 a.m. Wednesday for eastern Clinton County in New York and much of northern and central Vermont, including Grand Isle, Franklin, Chittenden, Lamoille, Addison, and Rutland counties. Snow totals of 3 to 6 inches are expected, with the most intense snowfall occurring between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. Tuesday. Snowfall rates during that window could exceed 1 to 1.5 inches per hour.
The heaviest impacts are expected along major travel corridors including I-89, U.S. Route 2, Route 7, and mountain passes serving Stowe, Killington, and the central Green Mountains. Bridges and overpasses are likely to ice over first, creating hazardous driving conditions during peak travel hours. Burlington, St. Albans, Plattsburgh, Shelburne, Richmond, and South Hero are all expected to see snow-covered roads during the Tuesday evening commute.
Drivers are urged to slow down, allow extra stopping distance, and consider delaying non-essential travel during periods of heavy snow. Slick conditions may linger into the Wednesday morning commute before the snow tapers off. Road conditions can be monitored through New England 511 for Vermont and 511 New York. Additional advisories may be issued if snowfall rates remain elevated into the overnight hours.
