Burlington, Vermont – Bitterly cold air combined with gusty winds is producing very cold wind chills across Vermont today and tonight, with the most dangerous conditions expected in higher elevations.
According to the National Weather Service in Burlington, scattered snow showers will continue into tonight, mainly across higher terrain. Outside of these snow showers, cold and breezy conditions will dominate the region, keeping daytime highs mostly in the single digits and teens.
Wind gusts of 35 to 40 mph are expected at times, especially in exposed and elevated areas. When combined with the cold temperatures, these winds will drive wind chill values well below zero across much of the state.
Forecast minimum wind chills today show values near 10 degrees below zero in Burlington, around 15 below zero in Montpelier, and 11 below zero in St. Albans. Colder conditions are expected in the Northeast Kingdom and mountain summits, where wind chills may fall significantly lower. At higher elevations such as Mount Mansfield, wind chill readings could plunge to 30 degrees below zero or colder.
The National Weather Service warns that prolonged exposure to these conditions may lead to frostbite in as little as 30 minutes, particularly on exposed skin. Residents are urged to dress in layers, cover exposed areas, and limit time outdoors when possible.
Travelers should also be aware that brief snow showers and blowing snow may reduce visibility at times, especially in mountain passes. Untreated roads and sidewalks may become slick as temperatures remain well below freezing.
Conditions are expected to remain cold into tonight before gradually moderating later in the week. Residents are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts and wind chill information at weather.gov/btv as conditions evolve.
