Burlington, Vermont – Winter has tightened its grip across northwestern Vermont as frigid air and light snow settle over Burlington early today. Morning temperatures hover near 12 degrees, with wind chills dipping below zero, creating slick road conditions in several areas.
Light snow continues during the early hours, crunching underfoot and reducing traction on untreated roads. Although snowfall gradually tapers later in the day, temperatures struggle to rise, keeping icy patches in place well into the afternoon.
Bitter Cold and Icy Roads Today
Clouds begin to thin slightly as the day progresses, but the cold remains stubborn. Highs only reach the lower 20s, offering little help to melt accumulated ice. Drivers along I-89, Route 7, and neighborhood side streets are urged to use caution, especially on bridges, ramps, and shaded stretches where ice lingers.
Even as snowfall ends, refreezing remains a concern due to the prolonged cold and limited sunlight.
Sunday Brings Warming — and New Trouble
Conditions begin to change Sunday as clouds thicken throughout the day. Temperatures slowly climb toward the mid-20s, a shift that sets the stage for a more dangerous weather setup by evening.
This warming trend may seem modest, but it creates the perfect environment for ice development once precipitation arrives overnight.
Freezing Rain Likely Sunday Night Into Monday
According to the National Weather Service office in Burlington, freezing rain is likely Sunday night into early Monday, posing a significant travel hazard.
Forecasters warn that ice accumulations could exceed a quarter inch in some areas, enough to weigh down tree limbs and power lines. This raises the risk of isolated power outages, particularly in locations where ice builds rapidly.
Overnight temperatures hover near 21 degrees, allowing rain to freeze on contact. Roads may glaze quickly, especially in valleys, residential neighborhoods, and less-traveled routes.
Monday Morning Commute Could Be Hazardous
The Monday morning commute is expected to be the most dangerous travel window. Even main roads may become slick as freezing rain continues into the early hours.
Drivers are advised to reduce speed, avoid sudden braking, and allow extra time. Pedestrians should also be cautious, as sidewalks and parking lots may turn treacherous before temperatures rise.
Rain Takes Over, But Ice Risks Linger
By late Monday morning, temperatures climb toward 41 degrees, allowing freezing rain to transition to plain rain. While this change helps ease conditions on major roads, lingering ice may persist on shaded sidewalks, driveways, and secondary surfaces.
Standing water combined with melting ice could also lead to slushy conditions in low-lying areas.
Cold Air Returns Monday Night
The brief warm-up will not last. Colder air surges back into the region Monday night, flipping rain back to snow showers as winds increase off Lake Champlain. Temperatures fall into the teens, allowing any remaining moisture to refreeze.
This refreeze raises concerns for black ice, especially overnight and into early Tuesday.
Wintry Pattern Continues Into New Year’s Week
Tuesday remains cold and unsettled, with scattered snow showers and highs near 21 degrees. The chill lingers through midweek, with another chance of snow arriving by New Year’s Eve on Wednesday, keeping 2026 travel plans under close watch.
Meteorologists continue monitoring ice totals closely, noting that conditions could deteriorate rapidly after sunset Sunday.
Five-Day Forecast for Burlington, VT
- Today: Snow ending, very cold; high near 22
- Sunday: Increasing clouds, cold; high near 25
- Monday: Freezing rain changing to rain, breezy; high near 41
- Tuesday: Snow showers, windy; high near 21
- Wednesday (New Year’s Eve): Chance of snow, cold; high near 27
What You Should Do Now
If you plan to travel late Sunday or early Monday, consider adjusting your schedule. Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle, charge mobile devices, and monitor local advisories closely as the situation evolves.
Traveling during the holiday week? Share what road conditions look like where you are in the comments below.
