Burlington, Vt. – Smoke lingers over the Champlain Valley while rain-soaked pavement glistens across parts of northern Vermont. Conditions will change quickly as the day unfolds, with stronger thunderstorms expected to develop by midafternoon. Drivers and anyone spending time outdoors should stay weather-aware through the evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Burlington, showers will become more widespread through the day before thunderstorms develop during the afternoon and evening. High temperatures will reach around 81 degrees, while south winds increase to 10 to 17 mph, with gusts approaching 31 mph. Rain chances climb to 60 percent, with locally heavier downpours possible in stronger storms.
The National Weather Service’s Hazardous Weather Outlook says isolated to scattered severe thunderstorms are possible across northern Vermont and northern New York. Damaging wind gusts remain the primary concern, although frequent lightning and brief torrential rainfall could also create hazardous travel conditions.
An Air Quality Alert remains in effect from 6 a.m. until 11 p.m. because of wildfire smoke drifting into Vermont. According to the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, air quality may reach levels considered unhealthy for sensitive groups. Children, older adults, people with asthma or heart disease, and those working outdoors should reduce prolonged physical activity whenever possible.
Travel along Interstate 89, U.S. Route 7 and Interstate 91 could become slower during heavier showers this afternoon. Reduced visibility, ponding on roads and sudden wind gusts may affect drivers across Burlington, South Burlington, Essex, Colchester, St. Albans and nearby communities. Plan extra travel time and keep an eye on changing radar conditions.
Skies improve Sunday with sunshine and highs near 77 degrees before warmer weather returns Monday. Another active weather pattern develops on Tuesday, July 21, bringing renewed chances for showers and thunderstorms across the region.
Across the Northeast, the same cold front producing storms will gradually push wildfire smoke eastward, allowing air quality to slowly improve after today while ushering in slightly cooler air.
Seeing smoke or heavy rain where you live? Share what conditions look like in your part of northern Vermont.
Five-Day Forecast for Burlington, Vermont
- Sunday: Sunny. High 77°F, Low 58°F.
- Monday: Sunny. High 83°F, Low 63°F.
- Tuesday: Chance of showers, then showers likely with possible afternoon thunderstorms. High 82°F, Low 65°F.
- Wednesday: Showers likely with possible thunderstorms. High 80°F, Low 60°F.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny. High 79°F, Low 59°F.
