BURLINGTON, Vt. – The local weather team has declared a First Alert Weather Day starting Sunday night into Monday due to anticipated freezing rain, which is expected to create hazardous travel conditions and could lead to power outages across the region.
Freezing rain is forecasted to begin Sunday evening, lasting until Monday morning. The most hazardous conditions are predicted along and east of the Green Mountains, the Adirondacks, and the St. Lawrence Valley, where ice accumulation poses the highest risk for power outages.
An Ice Storm Warning has been issued for various counties, including Essex, Lamoille, Caledonia, Orange, Windsor, and Washington Counties in Vermont, as well as northern Franklin and Essex Counties in New York, set to be in effect until 4 p.m. on Monday.
The freezing rain is expected to start between 8 p.m. and midnight, with the heaviest accumulation taking place from midnight until 7 a.m. This period will likely see the most treacherous travel conditions, particularly during Monday morning’s commute. While temperatures are projected to gradually warm above freezing by Monday morning, this change in temperature will vary by location. The Champlain Valley, along with the valleys of Rutland and Bennington County, will likely experience a transition to rain by mid-morning, resulting in lower ice totals and reduced risks for power outages.
In contrast, areas such as the Green Mountains, Adirondacks, and St. Lawrence Valley may remain below freezing longer, prolonging the freezing rain into midday Monday. As a result of the cold front expected on Monday evening, temperatures will drop again, reaching highs in the mid-30s to low 40s, accompanied by scattered snow showers and gusty winds ranging from 25 to 40 mph, with localized gusts potentially hitting 50 mph in the St. Lawrence Valley.
Residents in the regions under the Ice Storm Warning should anticipate ice accumulation potentially exceeding a quarter of an inch, with localized areas possibly seeing more than half an inch. Meanwhile, lower ice totals are expected in the valleys of western and southeastern Vermont, generally ranging from a tenth to a quarter of an inch, though these amounts could still make untreated roads and driveways slick.
Authorities advise that the freezing rain can lead to downed tree limbs and scattered power outages, particularly in areas experiencing the heaviest ice. Although this isn’t predicted to be a severe ice storm, preparedness is crucial. Residents are encouraged to charge electronic devices, have flashlights and batteries readily available, and keep blankets on hand, particularly with colder temperatures expected by Tuesday morning.
It’s wise to postpone or avoid travel during the freezing rain. If travel is unavoidable, allow extra time and proceed with caution, especially during the Monday morning commute. The community is urged to stay safe as they navigate these weather challenges.