Burlington, Vermont – Drivers, residents, and outdoor workers across Vermont are facing a double threat of sweltering heat and poor air quality today as a warming trend pushes the heat index into the mid-90s and wildfire smoke blankets the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Burlington, hot and humid conditions will push apparent temperatures to between 85 and 95 degrees from midday through late afternoon. Air Quality Alerts remain in effect for much of northern Vermont and upstate New York, with wildfire smoke from Canada creating hazy skies and unhealthy air until midnight Tuesday.
Communities including Burlington, St. Johnsbury, and Middlebury can expect the highest heat index values, while the thickest smoke will linger near Saranac Lake, Plattsburgh, and the Champlain Valley. Officials urge residents to stay indoors if possible, limit strenuous outdoor activities, and keep hydrated. Those with heart or lung conditions, young children, and the elderly are at highest risk during both heat and air quality events.
Travelers should avoid outdoor work in the afternoon and check on vulnerable neighbors. This marks one of the hottest and smokiest July days so far this summer, with conditions similar to the 2023 Canadian wildfire smoke event.
Both heat and air quality alerts are set to expire at midnight, but additional advisories may follow if the pattern holds.
