Burlington, Vermont – As November winds down, Burlington residents are waking up to a chilly drizzle across the Champlain Valley. But according to forecasters, the mild, damp start is only the quiet before a sharper, colder turn in the weather—right as Thanksgiving travel reaches its busiest point of the week.
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Burlington reports that temperatures will briefly climb into the low 50s today before a noticeable drop arrives by Thursday afternoon. With tens of thousands expected to travel across Vermont for the holiday, the timing raises concerns for slick roads, reduced visibility, and early-season snow.
Rain, Wind, and Sudden Temperature Drops Expected
The NWS expects steady periods of rain through the day, gradually paired with gusty southwest winds building into the evening. Forecasters warn that by Thursday afternoon, the breeze will shift sharply colder, beginning the transition from rain to snow across multiple counties, especially in Addison, Lamoille, and Franklin.
A recent update from the National Weather Service noted that a mixed precipitation band may develop just before sunset, creating difficult travel windows for holiday drivers.
“We’re watching a quick drop in temperatures late Thursday, which could lead to wet roads becoming icy in spots—particularly across the higher elevations,”
the NWS said in its morning discussion.
This timing aligns directly with peak Thanksgiving travel hours, increasing the risk on major routes.
Travel Concerns Across I-89 and Route 7
Traffic along I-89 and Route 7 is expected to slow significantly as the rain turns to slushy mix by Thursday evening. Forecasters say visibility could drop quickly, and higher-elevation towns may see early accumulation.
Around Burlington, snowfall totals remain low—typically less than an inch. But areas just north and east of the city, especially closer to the Green Mountains, may receive up to 2 inches of snow.
State transportation officials are expected to pre-treat major roadways, but drivers should still prepare for slick bridges, shaded curves, and sudden patches of ice—conditions that frequently develop during temperature swings.
Colder Air Arrives on Friday
Friday will bring a noticeable shift into true late-November chill. Afternoon highs will struggle to reach 35°F, while wind chills are expected to dip into the mid-20s.
Light snow showers may continue across northern Vermont through the day, adding to the wintry feel for early Black Friday shoppers. While significant accumulation isn’t expected, the persistent breeze and cold will make long-distance travel uncomfortable.
Weekend Break Before Arctic Air Arrives
After Friday’s brisk conditions, Saturday brings a temporary improvement. Sunshine and calmer winds will allow temperatures to reach around 33°F, though the air will still hold a winter bite.
By Sunday, clouds return and another round of rain and snow is likely by evening. Meteorologists describe this late-November pattern as a precursor to a much stronger system developing just to the west.
Experts are now closely monitoring a major Arctic front expected to surge across the U.S. between December 1–5. Early models indicate potential for heavy snow, widespread subfreezing temperatures, and an abrupt shift into full winter conditions across the Northeast, including Vermont.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Burlington
- Today: Rain likely, 53°F
- Thursday: Rain/snow mix, 42°F
- Friday: Snow showers, 35°F
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, 33°F
- Sunday: Late rain/snow, 40°F
Staying Safe During the Holiday Weather Shift
Drivers planning Thanksgiving trips should keep an eye on updated forecasts and allow extra time for travel. Weather officials recommend preparing vehicles with winter tires, checking windshield wipers, and carrying emergency kits, especially for nighttime drives.
Black Friday shoppers should dress warmly, as wind chills will make short outdoor waits feel significantly colder. For households traveling with elderly relatives or young children, cold exposure can occur quickly during sudden wind bursts.
If the early December Arctic front materializes as expected, more substantial snow and hazardous travel are likely next week, making preparedness especially important now.
Conclusion
As the last days of November unfold, Burlington faces a quick pivot from mild drizzle to icy conditions and the first hints of winter. With Thanksgiving travel at its peak, residents and visitors should prepare for slick roads, dropping temperatures, and evolving winter weather patterns.
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