Cold air hangs over Lake Champlain this morning while steady rain spreads across northern Vermont, raising concerns about rising rivers and early spring flooding. Water from melting snowpack is already feeding creeks and streams across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Burlington, a Flood Watch remains in effect through Thursday afternoon for northern New York and much of Vermont. The combination of rain and snowmelt may trigger rapid rises on rivers and smaller streams across Chittenden, Franklin, and Essex counties.
Temperatures climb into the low 50s, accelerating snowmelt across the Adirondacks and Green Mountains. As runoff increases, water levels may rise quickly along the Winooski, Lamoille, and Missisquoi rivers. Ice on rivers may also begin breaking apart, creating the potential for ice jams and sudden localized flooding.
Rain continues through tonight with precipitation totals between 0.10 and 0.25 inches, though heavier bursts are possible in isolated showers. Drivers along Interstate 89, Route 7, and Route 2 may encounter standing water or ponding in low spots.
Conditions turn breezy Thursday with cooler air returning. High temperatures struggle near 35°F, slowing the snowmelt but keeping streams elevated for a time. Residents living near flood-prone creeks should monitor water levels closely.
Another weather shift arrives Friday as colder air mixes with incoming moisture. Rain may briefly transition to snow showers, especially late in the day. Light accumulations are possible in higher elevations of Vermont and northern New York.
Saturday remains unsettled with additional snow showers around the Champlain Valley before calmer conditions return.
For now, emergency managers urge residents to keep drainage areas clear and avoid driving through flooded roads.
Are rivers or creeks rising near your neighborhood in northern Vermont or northern New York today? Let us know what you’re seeing.
Five Day Forecast for Burlington, Vermont
Wednesday: Showers likely. High near 53°F.
Wednesday Night: Rain continues. Low near 34°F.
Thursday: Breezy with rain early, then mostly cloudy. High near 35°F.
Friday: Chance of rain changing to snow showers. High near 38°F.
Saturday: Snow showers likely, then cloudy. High near 36°F.
