Burlington, Vermont – A prolonged blast of Arctic cold is poised to grip Vermont and northern New York late this week into early next week, with temperatures dropping below zero for extended periods and wind chills cold enough to become dangerous in minutes.
According to the National Weather Service in Burlington, confidence is high that many communities across northern Vermont and northern New York will see subzero temperatures beginning late Friday and continuing through at least early Monday. Wind chills could plunge as low as 20 to 40 degrees below zero, especially overnight and during the early morning hours.
Statewide in Vermont, the coldest conditions are expected in the Northeast Kingdom, central Green Mountains and the Champlain Valley, including Burlington and Montpelier. In northern New York, areas such as Plattsburgh, Massena and Saranac Lake show a high likelihood of remaining below zero for much of the weekend, with only brief daytime moderation.
This level of cold can quickly lead to frostbite, hypothermia and increased strain on home heating systems. Residents are urged to limit time outdoors, dress in layers that cover exposed skin, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Pets should be brought indoors, and homeowners should protect pipes from freezing.
Officials warn that this is a sustained cold event rather than a brief overnight dip. Additional cold weather advisories or wind chill warnings are likely as the Arctic air settles in, and the bitter conditions may linger into early next week before gradual improvement.
