Another Arctic Blast Headed for Vermont and North Country

Dangerously cold temperatures and wind chills expected this weekend

Published on Feb. 3, 2026

A strong Arctic cold front is set to push through Vermont and the North Country late this week, bringing another round of below-zero temperatures, dangerous wind chills, and snow showers. Wind chills could reach as low as -35°F, creating a high risk of frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. The frigid conditions are expected to last through the weekend before temperatures begin to warm up early next week.

Why it matters

Extreme cold weather events can pose serious threats to public safety, especially for vulnerable populations. The combination of sub-zero temperatures and gusty winds can lead to dangerous wind chills, increasing the risk of hypothermia and frostbite for those spending time outdoors. Local officials and emergency services will need to be prepared to respond to any weather-related incidents or power outages.

The details

The Arctic cold front is expected to move through the region late Friday night into Saturday, bringing snow showers, gusty northwesterly winds, and the surge of bitterly cold air. Wind gusts could reach up to 45 mph in some areas, with actual temperatures potentially dropping as low as -20°F in parts of northern New York and north central Vermont. Sunday will remain dangerously cold, with high temperatures only reaching the single digits.

  • The Arctic cold front will push through the region late Friday night into Saturday.
  • Wind gusts are expected to top out in the 25 to 40 mph range on Saturday, with a few gusts closer to 45 mph possible.
  • Actual temperatures could drop as low as -20°F in parts of northern New York and north central Vermont on Saturday night.
  • Dangerously cold conditions are expected to persist through Sunday, with high temperatures only reaching the single digits.

The players

WCAX

A local television news station serving the Burlington, Vermont area.

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What’s next

The First Alert Weather Team will continue to refine the forecast for Friday evening snow and weekend wind chills over the course of the week. Residents are advised to stay tuned to local media for the latest updates and to take necessary precautions to stay safe during the extreme cold.

The takeaway

This Arctic blast is a stark reminder of the importance of being prepared for severe winter weather in the Northeast. Residents should heed warnings from local officials, limit time outdoors, and take steps to protect themselves and their homes from the dangerously cold temperatures and wind chills expected this weekend.