BURLINGTON, Vt. – Gusty winds and bone-dry air could create dangerous fire conditions across Vermont today, with Burlington and the Champlain Valley under the highest risk. Drivers along I-89 and I-91 should expect sudden wind gusts that may make travel hazardous, especially for high-profile vehicles.
According to the National Weather Service in Burlington, winds will build through this afternoon, reaching 20 to 25 mph with localized gusts near 35 mph in the Champlain Valley and Adirondacks. The Vermont Department of Forests warns that relative humidity dropping to 25–35% will combine with moderate drought to create critical fire weather conditions.
Fires that start could spread rapidly, fueled by dry grasses and leaves across western and central Vermont. Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning and use extreme caution with grills, campfires, and machinery that may spark. Any outdoor event, from yardwork to after-school sports, could be affected by shifting winds and sudden flare-ups.
Conditions will begin to improve late tonight as showers move in, bringing some relief to parched areas. Until then, emergency officials emphasize that people should stay vigilant and report smoke or flames immediately.
Looking ahead, Friday will bring highs near 79 with decreasing clouds, while scattered showers return Saturday. Cooler, fall-like air follows early next week, setting up a drier pattern by Monday.
