BURLINGTON — A significant winter storm is set to impact most of Vermont, including Newport, starting from 11 a.m. Wednesday until 6 a.m. Friday, according to the National Weather Service in Burlington. The region faces a winter storm warning alongside a wind advisory, signaling a combination of heavy snow and strong winds that could severely affect travel and safety.
The onset of the storm on Wednesday will see a chance of rain after 1 p.m., mixing with snow after 5 p.m. The day will be marked by increasing clouds, with a high near 42 degrees, with gusts as high as 26 mph. However, little to no snow accumulation is expected during the day.
Wednesday night will bring more severe conditions, with snow mainly after 10 p.m. Temperatures will drop to around 28 degrees, accompanied by east winds of 14 to 17 mph and gusts as high as 36 mph. The chance of precipitation rises to 90 percent, with new snow accumulation of 3 to 5 inches possible.
Thursday’s forecast includes continuous snow, with a high near 34 degrees and northeast winds of 13 to 18 mph, gusting up to 33 mph, with an additional snow accumulation of 3 to 5 inches.
The storm continues into Thursday night with snow showers and a low around 31 degrees. Northeast winds will slow to 8 to 10 mph, with new snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches possible.
By Friday, snow showers are likely before 10 a.m., followed by a mix of rain and snow showers until noon, then transitioning to mostly rain showers after noon.
The system begins to move out Friday night, with a chance of rain and snow showers before midnight, then a possibility of snow showers between midnight and 2 a.m.
Residents are advised to prepare for these hazardous conditions. Precautionary measures include carrying extra food, water, and a flashlight in vehicles in case of emergencies, and allowing extra time for travel. Securing outdoor objects is also recommended to prevent damage from the strong winds. The strongest wind gusts are likely to occur before the wintry precipitation arrives Wednesday evening.
