Vermont — Breath crystallizes instantly in the dark morning air, and snow squeaks underfoot. That sharp sound is your first warning. A dangerous stretch of winter weather is unfolding now across northern Vermont, with extreme cold followed by a powerful snowstorm aimed at Burlington.
An Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect through this afternoon. Wind chills have plunged as low as 30 to 40 degrees below zero, creating life-threatening conditions. Frostbite can develop in minutes. Limit time outdoors and protect exposed skin.
Attention quickly turns to the next threat. A Winter Storm Warning begins Sunday afternoon and lasts into early Tuesday. Snow spreads into the Champlain Valley by evening, then intensifies overnight. Meteorologists expect 8 to 17 inches of snow, with locally higher totals possible. Snowfall rates may exceed one inch per hour at times.
Roads deteriorate rapidly Sunday night. Bridges and overpasses ice first, especially along I-89, Route 7, and Route 2. Travel may become difficult to impossible by late evening. Conditions could severely impact the Monday morning commute. Plan now to avoid unnecessary travel.
Snow continues through Monday morning before tapering to lighter snow showers. Cold air locks in behind the storm. Highs struggle to reach the teens, and refreezing becomes a major concern. Melted snow turns to glare ice, increasing crash risks even after snowfall ends.
Residents should prepare immediately. Stock food, water, and batteries. Keep flashlights ready and charge devices. If traveling is unavoidable, carry blankets and emergency supplies.
Looking ahead, colder-than-normal temperatures persist into midweek. Precipitation chances ease later in the week, but winter remains firmly in control.
How cold did it feel where you are this morning, and are roads already slick near you?
Five-Day Outlook: Burlington, Vermont
• Sunday: Snow develops late, windy. High near 10.
• Monday: Heavy snow early, tapering. High near 14.
• Tuesday: Partly sunny, bitter cold. High near 15.
• Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, cold. High near 15.
• Thursday: Mostly cloudy, frigid. High near 11.
