Vermont – Trees creak under growing ice loads early Monday as freezing rain coats roads, power lines, and hillsides from the Green Mountains into northern New York. The air feels heavy and damp, and even treated pavement turns slick before sunrise.
The National Weather Service in Burlington has an Ice Storm Warning in effect until 4 p.m. Monday for much of eastern Vermont and northern New York, including Stowe, Montpelier, St. Johnsbury, White River Junction, Lake Placid, Massena, and Malone. Ice accumulations of 0.40 to 0.70 inches are expected, with most of the icing occurring through mid-morning.
Travel is strongly discouraged, especially during the Monday morning commute. Roads, bridges, and sidewalks may become nearly impassable as freezing rain continues. Emergency managers warn that even short trips could turn hazardous quickly.
As the day progresses, conditions may worsen again. Wind gusts of 35 mph, and up to 50 mph in the St. Lawrence Valley, are expected this afternoon. Those winds will stress ice-laden trees and power lines, increasing the risk of scattered to numerous power outages that could extend into Tuesday morning.
Temperatures are expected to fall later today as colder air surges in behind the system. That drop could lock ice in place and allow any moisture to refreeze, creating widespread black ice after precipitation ends.
Residents should prepare now. Charge devices, secure backup heat, and check on neighbors who may be vulnerable. If travel is unavoidable, carry food, water, and a flashlight, and allow extra time.
This ice storm sets a difficult tone for the final week of 2025, with lingering impacts likely to affect New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day 2026 travel across the region.
