Vermont – Cold air bites hard across the Green Mountains this New Year’s Eve, with crisp skies giving way to thickening clouds and the promise of snow by day’s end. The ground stays frozen, breath hangs in the air, and travel conditions are poised to change quickly as 2026 approaches.
According to the National Weather Service in Burlington, snow develops later today and continues into tonight, with total accumulations between 1 and 4 inches across much of Vermont. Officials urge drivers to slow down and use caution as roads turn snow-covered and visibility drops during heavier bursts.
Burlington starts the morning near 11 degrees, one of the coldest readings so far this week. Snow becomes likely this evening, spreading across Chittenden County and nearby communities. Winds stay light, but the cold amplifies impacts, allowing snow to stick immediately to untreated roads. Routes like I-89, Route 7, and local connectors could become slick fast.
By New Year’s Day, snow tapers to scattered showers, but the cold intensifies. Highs struggle to reach the mid-teens, with wind chills dipping below zero at times. Any daytime melting remains limited, yet refreezing becomes a concern after sunset, raising the risk of black ice on sidewalks, parking lots, and rural roads.
Friday brings partial sunshine and calmer conditions, though temperatures remain well below normal. The first weekend of 2026 stays dry overall, with cold mornings and slow warming each afternoon. Another chance of snow showers appears early next week, keeping winter firmly in control.
Plan extra time for travel, dress in layers, and keep traction in mind if heading out tonight or early Thursday. Winter has arrived with authority. How much snow are you seeing where you live?
Five-Day Outlook for Burlington, VT
- Today (New Year’s Eve): Clouds increasing, snow developing later; high near 25°F
- New Year’s Day: Early snow showers, then partial sun; high near 14°F
- Friday: Partly sunny; high near 19°F
- Saturday: Partly sunny; high near 13°F
- Sunday: Partly sunny; high near 16°F
