In mid-February 2026, meteorologists from the National Weather Service (NWS) and regional forecasters have issued a series of warnings for Vermont and Upstate New York as a multi-wave winter pattern settles over the Northeast. Following a disruptive Arctic surge in late January, the current sequence of storms is expected to bring consistent, heavy snow accumulation and significant travel hazards through the final weeks of the month.
The first significant system of this round arrived on February 10-11, delivering up to 11 inches of snow in parts of New York and widespread accumulations of 4 to 6 inches across Vermont. This served as a precursor to additional waves of moisture and cold air currently tracking toward the region.
Successive Storm Rounds: Late February Outlook
Forecasters are tracking a primary clipper system followed by a secondary coastal low that together create a “chill, snow, repeat” cycle for New England.
Heavy Accumulation: While initial totals ranged from 3 to 6 inches for many valley locations, higher elevations in the Green Mountains and Adirondacks are seeing significant snow ratios. Some localized areas are bracing for an additional 8 to 12 inches as subsequent waves pass through.
Snow Characteristics: Much like the late January events, the cold temperatures are producing a “dry and fluffy” snow. While this results in fewer utility issues compared to heavy, wet snow, it creates high-impact travel conditions due to drifting and rapid visibility reduction.
Hazardous Highway Travel: Major corridors including I-89, I-91, and I-87 are under frequent winter weather advisories. The NWS Burlington office has specifically warned of snowfall rates reaching 1.5 inches per hour during peak commute times, which has already led to over 100 reported traffic incidents in the region this month.
State and Local Emergency Response
In response to the back-to-back alerts, Vermont and New York authorities have activated comprehensive emergency protocols to maintain infrastructure and public safety.
Power and Infrastructure: Emergency response teams are on standby to address power outages caused by gusty winds associated with the frontal passages. High-resolution models indicate potential gusts of 30 to 50 mph along the coast and higher terrain, increasing the risk of downed limbs and line failures.
Road Maintenance Challenges: VTrans and New York DOT are managing road clearing operations under a “limited road salt” rationing plan in certain districts, focusing resources on primary highways and emergency routes.
Emergency Declarations: Building on the statewide emergency declared by Governor Kathy Hochul in late January, local officials continue to urge residents to limit non-essential travel during peak storm hours to allow plow crews to operate safely.
