First Widespread Snowfall Expected Across Vermont and Adirondacks

First Widespread Snowfall Expected Across Vermont and Adirondacks

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The first widespread snowfall of the 2026 season is set to reach Vermont and northern New York starting Thursday morning, bringing a sharp transition to winter conditions for the region.

According to WCAX, the storm system will move into the area early Thursday and persist through Friday morning, creating an elevation-dependent weather event that will dictate everything from commute times to power reliability.

The impact of this system remains highly variable, largely determined by altitude. While high-elevation areas in the Green Mountains and the Adirondacks are braced for significant accumulation, broader valleys face a messier, slushier transition. “The best chance to see accumulating snow greater than 2″ will be above 1200′ in southern Vermont, central Vermont and the Adirondacks,” WCAX reported.

For those living at higher elevations, the storm presents a classic early-season winter challenge. Locations above 1200 feet in central and southern Vermont can expect between 2 and 5 inches of heavy, wet snow. The central and southern Green Mountains, along with the High Peaks of the Adirondacks, are forecasted to receive 4 to 6 inches, with some summits potentially seeing up to 8 inches.

Timing out the region's first widespread snow event — WCAX Channel 3 News

In contrast, the lower-lying valleys—including the Champlain Valley—will struggle to retain much snow. Because air temperatures are hovering near or slightly above freezing and the ground remains relatively warm from the preceding months, much of the precipitation in these areas will likely melt on contact. Residents in these zones should expect a mix of rain and light snow, with accumulation limited to grassy or elevated surfaces.

Northern Vermont and the St. Lawrence Valley will see the lightest impacts. Areas near the Canadian border are expected to receive only a light dusting, while the Northeast Kingdom and north-central Vermont might see one to two inches in higher terrain. These totals, however, remain subject to change as the storm track and temperature profiles are refined by meteorologists.

First Widespread Snowfall Expected Across Vermont and Adirondacks

The primary concern for the next 48 hours is the disparity in road conditions. While valley floors may remain mostly clear, mountain passes are expected to become slick and difficult to drive. Drivers planning travel through higher terrain from Thursday into Friday should prepare for winter conditions and allocate additional time for their commutes.

The nature of the snow itself adds a layer of risk. Because it is described as “heavy, wet” snow, it poses a higher threat to local infrastructure than the drier, powder-like snow often seen mid-winter. WCAX said that “an isolated power outage or two is possible in southern, mountain towns” due to the weight of the accumulation on trees and power lines.

Northeast on alert for freezing cold, first major snow storm — USA TODAY

This event serves as an early reminder of the logistical challenges inherent to the Northeast’s geography.

The exact timing and intensity of the transition from rain to snow remain the primary variables for the First Alert Weather team. As the system approaches, the precise track of the low-pressure center will dictate how far north the steadier precipitation reaches. Residents are encouraged to monitor live radar and local updates, as the situation remains fluid.

Free of green mountains with snowcapped peaks hidden in the clouds

As of late Tuesday, the forecast remained focused on the window between Thursday morning and Friday morning, with conditions expected to trend lighter and taper off by the end of the day Friday.

More on this story: A Shift in the Weather Pattern Could Bring the First Snowflakes of the Season to Parts of the DMV · First Snowfall and Lake-Effect Rain Expected in Chicago Area This Week

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