Burlington, Vt. – Heavy snow is pushing across Vermont tonight as the powerful coastal storm impacting the East Coast expands northward, bringing widespread winter storm warnings and hazardous travel conditions statewide. While the strongest winds and blizzard conditions remain closer to the coast, steady snowfall will affect communities from Burlington to Montpelier through Monday.
According to NOAA and the National Weather Service, winter storm warnings cover much of Vermont, including Chittenden, Washington and Rutland counties. Snow will intensify overnight and continue through Monday, reducing visibility and creating snow-covered roads across central and northern sections of the state. The system is part of a larger storm producing more extreme conditions along the coastline, but inland areas will still face significant impacts.
Even without coastal blizzard winds, the snow falling in Vermont will be dense and moisture-laden at times, increasing its weight. That can make shoveling especially strenuous. Health officials urge residents to take frequent breaks, stay hydrated and push snow instead of lifting it whenever possible. Overexertion during snow removal can place dangerous strain on the heart, particularly for older adults and anyone with underlying medical conditions. The weight of the snow may also weigh down tree limbs and utility lines, leading to scattered outages in communities such as St. Albans and Brattleboro.
Travel is strongly discouraged except for emergencies. The Vermont Agency of Transportation warns that Interstate 89, Interstate 91 and secondary roads may become slick and snow-packed during peak snowfall Monday. If stranded, drivers should remain inside their vehicle with a winter emergency kit.
Snow will taper late Monday into Tuesday, though cold temperatures may keep roads icy. Additional advisories could follow as the storm exits northern New England.
