BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – After what has been the coldest winter we’ve had in years, there’s plenty of snow on the ground, as well as thick ice on the rivers. It was just a matter of time before warmer weather would eventually get here, and though it will bring a welcomed sign of spring, it will cause significant snowmelt which will run off into bodies of water, including rivers and streams.
Sunday’s highs will be in the 40s. Some river rises are expected, but the greatest likelihood won’t be until early next week. Highs on Monday will be well into the 50s, and a few spots may even get into the low 60s. This will cause rapid snowmelt and go into the rivers. Mild temperatures will continue into Thursday, with rain likely Wednesday and again Thursday morning. This will add to the runoff.
Though widespread flooding isn’t expected at this time, river rises are expected, along with possible ice movement/breakup and ice jams. Any jams could result in minor flooding. A few rivers that we are watching in particular are the Mad River, Ausable River, and Otter Creek. Our First Alert Weather Team will keep you updated.
