Vermont – As Thanksgiving week begins, early winter conditions are quietly settling over Burlington, bringing a mix of chilly air, shifting clouds, and the return of light snow chances that could influence travel across the region.
Early Wintry Mix May Affect Friday Travel
A thin layer of cold air blanketed Burlington early this morning as gray clouds moved across Lake Champlain, leaving the pavement damp and the breeze noticeably sharper. Forecasters at the National Weather Service (NWS) Burlington say a developing mix of rain, snow showers, and brief freezing rain may form from late morning into midafternoon.
Even though totals are expected to remain light, experts warn that trace amounts on untreated roads—especially on hills and back routes—could produce slick patches. Drivers using I-89, Route 7, or heading toward higher elevations are urged to allow extra time as conditions may change rapidly.
Temperatures should edge slightly upward by late afternoon, reducing the risk of icing, but the window for wintry precipitation remains narrow enough to create short-lived travel inconveniences for early holiday commuters.
Weekend Break Before Another System Approaches
Clouds are expected to linger tonight, paired with calmer winds and a more stable air mass. Saturday offers a temporary reprieve as steadier sunshine pushes highs into the low 40s, making it a solid day for finishing outdoor chores, leaf pickup, or early holiday preparations.
However, this quiet stretch won’t last. Meteorologists are monitoring another disturbance expected to arrive Sunday afternoon. Current model guidance suggests a second round of rain-snow mix developing late in the day. While little to no accumulation is anticipated, forecasters caution that visibility may drop at times and road temperatures will hover close to freezing—conditions that can still complicate travel plans.
A Closer Look at the Developing Storm Pattern
As Thanksgiving draws near, larger national weather patterns are beginning to shift. Several long-range indicators point to colder air pushing into the Northeast, while the central and northern U.S. may face a higher chance of heavier snow between November 25 and December 3.
For Vermont, the threat remains low at this time, but experts note that the atmospheric trend is worth watching—especially as millions of Americans map out their busiest travel days of the season.
What Commuters Should Know
Holiday travelers should stay alert and monitor updated forecasts heading into early next week. Even minor fluctuations in temperature can determine whether Burlington gets light rain, wet snow, or brief freezing drizzle.
Local drivers are encouraged to keep emergency kits in their vehicles, check tire pressure, and plan routes ahead of time. For those traveling long distances, remaining flexible with departure windows may help avoid the worst of any developing weather.
Five-Day Burlington Forecast
Friday: 43/31 – Chance of wintry mix; possible slick spots midday
Saturday: 39/27 – Partly sunny; seasonably cool
Sunday: 39/33 – Cloudy; late-day mix possible with minor travel effects
Monday: 42/31 – Partly sunny; calmer winds
Tuesday: 44/34 – Light rain chance late; increasing clouds
Conclusion
With Thanksgiving quickly approaching, Burlington is likely to experience several light winter weather events—not severe, but enough to influence travel timing and roadway conditions. Staying aware of short-term forecasts and planning ahead will help keep the holiday week running smoothly.
Have you experienced early-season winter travel challenges in Vermont? Share your experiences in the comments below.
