Vermont to Face Near-Record Lows Tonight

Residents across Vermont and northern New York can expect temperatures to drop into the low 20s as a cold front arrives.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Current Conditions

Vermont to Face Near-Record Lows Tonight

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Is now a good time to ensure your home is prepared for unseasonably cold temperatures?

Vermont and parts of northern New York will experience near-record low temperatures tonight due to effective radiational cooling. Most areas are forecast to reach the low 20s by Wednesday morning.

Why it matters

The drop is driven by clear skies that allow heat to escape the surface, while a temperature inversion will keep some higher terrain areas slightly warmer than low-lying valleys.

Most of Vermont and northern New York will see temperatures in the 20s, with St. Johnsbury expected to hit 19 degrees and Montpelier forecast for 21 degrees. Higher terrain will remain milder, staying in the upper 20s to near 30 degrees due to inversion.

The details

Radiational cooling beneath mostly clear skies is triggering this significant temperature drop across the region. While Burlington is expected to reach 25 degrees, other locations like Saranac Lake are forecasted to reach 20 degrees.

Tonight: Temperatures will fall to near-record lows across the region.
Wednesday morning: Burlington is expected to reach its forecast low of 25 degrees.

Seasonal Patterns

This forecast reflects a significant dip that tests historical benchmarks, such as the record lows established in St. Johnsbury and Montpelier in 1999. The current cold snap aligns with regional climatological shifts where clear nights frequently lead to extreme radiational cooling.

Residents should prepare for freezing conditions by ensuring outdoor pipes are protected and sensitive plants are covered. Drivers should remain alert for potential frost on road surfaces during the early morning hours.

The takeaway

Maintaining warmth during these record-challenging nights is essential for personal safety and home protection. Checking local forecasts tomorrow morning will help residents confirm if new record lows were set in their area.