Burlington, VT – A bitter cold start is gripping the Champlain Valley this morning, with lake-effect snow developing in eastern sections and wind chills falling into the teens below zero, according to the National Weather Service in Burlington.
Forecasters say snow began early this morning as cold northwest flow triggered lake-effect bands off Lake Champlain. The heaviest snow occurred just before sunrise, particularly near Colchester and surrounding communities. Snow intensity will ease through midmorning, but scattered flurries are expected to linger.
Temperatures will remain locked in the teens through the day with little warming, and wind chill values of –10° to –15° will make conditions feel much colder. The NWS notes that the arrival of lake-effect snow is a sign of a deeper, prolonged stretch of cold weather settling across the region.
Travel may be affected in portions of northwestern and southern Vermont where roads remain snow-covered or slick. Transportation crews report reduced visibility at times and patches of compact snow on untreated roads.
Residents are encouraged to dress in layers, limit exposed skin, and allow extra time for travel this morning. Drivers should slow down and maintain distance, especially in known trouble spots along the I-89 corridor.
