Vermont residents are enjoying a brief, deceptive taste of spring this Thursday morning as temperatures climb toward a mild 56°F, but a sharp weather shift is already in motion. The morning’s gray, overcast sky serves as the quiet before a cold front that will slash temperatures by nearly 30 degrees in less than twelve hours. By 3 a.m. Friday, the damp pavement from afternoon showers will likely transform into a sheet of ice as values plummet toward a biting 26°F.
According to the National Weather Service, a 70% chance of precipitation tonight will transition from rain to a heavy snow mix after midnight. While total accumulation may stay under half an inch, the primary danger lies in the “flash freeze” effect. As the mercury drops rapidly, any standing water on high-traffic corridors like I-89 and Route 7 will solidify, creating treacherous, invisible black ice for the early Friday morning commute.
Northern wind gusts reaching 31 mph will add a raw, winter-like bite to the air by midday Friday. This wind will drive the wind chill into the teens, a staggering departure from Thursday’s warmth. Pedestrians in downtown Burlington should prepare for slippery sidewalks and biting winds through Friday evening.
Saturday remains crisp and bright, but the cold remains stubborn with a projected high of only 30°F. This weekend will require a return to heavy winter gear before another gradual warming trend begins on Sunday. Residents should ensure outdoor pipes remain protected and vehicle tires are properly inflated as the pressure drops.
Conditions are expected to stabilize by Sunday afternoon with sunnier skies and a return to the 40s. Are you seeing ice buildup on your local roads this morning?
Five Day Forecast for Burlington, Vermont
- Thursday: Chance of showers, high near 56°F. South winds 9 to 14 mph.
- Friday: 30% chance of morning snow showers, then sunny. High 31°F.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny and cold. High near 30°F. Low 20°F.
- Sunday: Partly sunny and milder. High near 42°F.
- Monday: 30% chance of showers after 2 p.m. High near 49°F.
