Winter Storms risk in Vermont

Winter Storm Characteristics in Vermont

Vermont's northern location and mountainous landscape make it one of the most winter storm-prone states in the country. Every county in Vermont experiences heavy snow, ice, and extreme cold each year. The Green Mountains run north-south through the state and play a major role in winter weather: they lift moisture-laden air, producing heavier snowfall on higher slopes. Communities near Lake Champlain can also see lake-effect snow bands, while southern valleys are often subject to freezing rain and ice storms.

Winter storms typically strike from November through April, with January and February the most active months. Powerful nor'easters can stall over New England, dropping a foot or more of snow across the state. These storms can last for days and are accompanied by strong winds, blowing snow, and dangerous wind chills. According to the National Weather Service, winter weather is the third-leading cause of weather-related deaths in the United States, and Vermont's rural roads and steep terrain magnify the dangers.

The entire state is at risk, but the highest elevations in the Worcester and Green Mountain ranges can receive over 100 inches of snow annually. In contrast, the Champlain Valley often sees less snow but more mix and ice. No matter where you live in Vermont, planning for a multi-day power outage is essential.

How Winter Storms Affect Homes

The most serious home risk is roof collapse. Wet, heavy snow can accumulate to dangerous levels, especially on large roofs or buildings with wide spans. The recommended snow load for roof design in Vermont is typically 50 pounds per square foot, but drifting snow can double that. Ice dams are another common issue: heat escaping from the attic melts snow on the roof; the melted water refreezes as it reaches the cold eave, causing water to flow back under the shingles and into the home.

Frozen pipes are also a leading source of winter damage. When temperatures stay below freezing for long stretches, water in exposed pipes can freeze and burst, leading to significant flooding inside walls and ceilings. Even a small crack can release hundreds of gallons of water. And when trees and branches fall on power lines, homes can lose heat for days, creating the risk of secondary damage from frozen pipes.

Regarding insurance, the Vermont Emergency Management urges homeowners to review their policies before winter. Most homeowners policies cover damage from the weight of snow and ice, as well as water damage from burst pipes, as long as you have taken reasonable care to maintain heat. However, many policies exclude damage caused by flooding, including flooding from rapid snowmelt or ice jams. If you live in a floodplain, you may need a separate flood insurance policy. Additionally, the cost to remove an ice dam is typically not covered, even if the water damage caused by the dam is covered.

How to Prepare Your Home

Winterizing your home can prevent costly repairs and keep your family safe. Follow these steps recommended by Ready.gov and Vermont Emergency Management:

• Seal air leaks: Caulk and weatherstrip around doors and windows to keep cold air out and warm air in.
• Add insulation: Upgrade attic insulation to reduce heat loss, which also prevents ice dams.
• Clean gutters: Remove leaves and debris so melting snow and ice can flow off the roof.
• Use a roof rake: After a heavy snowfall, carefully pull snow off the edges of the roof to reduce weight and prevent ice dams.
• Insulate pipes: Wrap exposed water pipes in foam sleeves or insulation, and know how to shut off your main water valve.
• Trim trees: Remove dead or overhanging branches near your home to prevent them from falling on your roof or power lines.
• Maintain heating equipment: Have your furnace serviced, clean chimneys, and test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Prepare for outages: If you have a generator, run it outdoors and away from windows. Never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home.
• Build an emergency kit: Include food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and blankets to last at least three days for each household member.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does homeowners insurance cover damage from ice dams?

Most standard policies cover the water damage to your home's interior that results from an ice dam, but they typically do not cover the cost of removing the ice dam itself or repairing the roof if the damage was due to poor maintenance. Review your policy and ask your insurance agent about specific coverage and exclusions.

How can I prevent my pipes from freezing?

Keep your thermostat set to the same temperature day and night, open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate, and let a trickle of cold water run during extreme cold. You can also wrap pipes with insulation, which is inexpensive and effective. If a pipe does freeze, keep the faucet open and apply heat with a hairdryer or heat pad—never use an open flame.

What should I include in a winter storm emergency kit?

In addition to the basics—water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit—include warm blankets, extra clothes, a battery-powered NOAA weather radio, a phone charger that works in your vehicle, sand or kitty litter for traction, a shovel, and enough medication for at least seven days. The CDC also recommends including items for infants, elderly family members, and pets.

Official Resources

• Vermont Emergency Management
• National Weather Service – Winter Weather Safety
• Ready.gov – Winter Weather
• CDC – Winter Weather