BURLINGTON, Vt. – Vermont wakes up to its first true taste of fall’s chill, with a hard frost gripping the region Friday morning. Temperatures have fallen into the upper 20s and low 30s across much of northern and central Vermont, signaling an end to the late-season growing window. The National Weather Service warns that subfreezing air could damage unprotected plants, sensitive crops, and exposed plumbing.
According to the National Weather Service office in Burlington, a Freeze Warning remains in effect through 8 a.m. Friday for much of northern Vermont, including Chittenden, Addison, Franklin, Lamoille, and Washington counties. Motorists traveling along I-89 and Route 7 should prepare for frosty windshields and slick rural road surfaces early in the day.
Gardeners are urged to cover tender vegetation and bring in potted plants. Homeowners should disconnect garden hoses and check outdoor faucets. Pet owners are also advised to ensure outdoor animals have warm shelter as the chill deepens.
Despite the early-season freeze, a rebound is on the way. Sunshine and milder air return Friday afternoon, with highs reaching near 60 °F. The weekend looks picture-perfect for leaf peeping, pumpkin-patch visits, and apple picking, as highs climb into the mid-60s under mostly clear skies. Clouds build again by Sunday night with a chance of light showers spreading east from Lake Champlain.
Cooler, unsettled weather returns early next week, but no additional frost is expected.
Five-Day Forecast for Burlington, VT:
Fri: 59/41 – Sunny; brisk morning frost fading by midday.
Sat: 64/43 – Bright and mild; perfect for fall festivals.
Sun: 65/48 – Partly sunny; light showers possible by evening.
Mon: 58/47 – Cloudy; scattered light rain showers.
Tue: 62/44 – Mostly cloudy; mild with improving afternoon sun.
