BURLINGTON, Vt. — As heavy snow continues to fall across Vermont from the Lake Champlain waterfront in Burlington to the State House area in Montpelier, officials are urging residents to take critical precautions before heading to bed.
Forecasters warn snowfall totals could climb overnight, increasing strain on rooftops, blocking ventilation systems and raising the risk of isolated power outages. Travel conditions have worsened along Interstate 89 and U.S. Route 7, while residential roads across Chittenden and Washington counties are rapidly accumulating snow.
Emergency management officials say the overnight hours often present the greatest risk, as temperatures drop and heating systems operate continuously.
Authorities recommend residents complete a brief home safety check before turning in for the night.
Key safety steps Vermont residents should take tonight:
- Clear exterior vents. Ensure furnace, boiler and dryer vents are free from snow to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide buildup.
- Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Confirm batteries are working properly as heating systems run at full capacity.
- Use space heaters with caution. Keep heaters away from flammable materials and avoid leaving units operating unattended unless rated for overnight use.
- Monitor roof and ceiling conditions. Heavy snow can strain homes, particularly older properties in Burlington and historic structures in Montpelier. Listen for unusual creaking and watch for sagging ceilings or water stains.
- Protect pipes along exterior walls. Open cabinet doors beneath sinks to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing.
- Clear vehicle exhaust pipes. Before starting vehicles in the morning, remove snow from tailpipes to prevent dangerous fumes.
- Charge essential devices. Gusting winds overnight may lead to scattered outages in some communities.
Communities from Church Street Marketplace in Burlington to downtown Montpelier have reported steady snowfall, with plow crews working extended shifts. Officials caution that neighborhood roads may not be fully cleared by morning.
Residents are also encouraged to check on elderly neighbors and those who may need assistance during extended snowfall.
While snow is expected to taper off tomorrow, authorities emphasize that the hours between midnight and early morning frequently present the highest risk for frozen pipes, heating-related hazards and structural strain.
Officials say taking a few minutes tonight to inspect homes could help prevent more serious problems by daybreak across Vermont.
