Montpelier, Vermont – Roads across northern and central Vermont could quickly turn icy Friday evening as freezing rain spreads into the region just after sunset, creating slick travel conditions before the Saturday morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Burlington, a Winter Weather Advisory takes effect at 7 p.m. Friday and continues until 7 a.m. Saturday for portions of central, northeast, and northwest Vermont. Ice accumulations could reach up to 0.10 inches, while wind gusts may climb to 35 mph, increasing the risk of scattered power outages and hazardous driving conditions.
The advisory includes communities such as Montpelier, Stowe, Newport, St. Johnsbury, Island Pond, Derby, Johnson, Hardwick, Waitsfield, Randolph, Bradford, and Lunenburg. Even a thin glaze of ice may coat untreated roads, sidewalks, and bridges overnight as temperatures hover near the freezing mark.
Drivers should expect slippery conditions along major corridors including Interstate 89 through central Vermont and U.S. Route 2 across the northern part of the state. Officials urge motorists to slow down and allow extra stopping distance, particularly late tonight when freezing rain may peak.
Residents are also encouraged to charge mobile devices and prepare for the possibility of isolated outages if ice accumulates on trees and power lines.
Freezing rain should taper shortly after 7 a.m. Saturday, but untreated roads may remain slick into the early morning hours. Additional advisories could be issued if icing becomes more widespread overnight.
