Published on
January 26, 2026
After days of treacherous travel, heavy snow and bitter cold that shook local transportation and travel plans, the Town of Brattleboro officially lifted its travel advisory at midday, allowing visitors and locals alike to resume travel safely through this scenic gateway of southern Vermont. Brattleboro’s iconic downtown, known for its arts, seasonal festivals and riverside views, had seen intense winter weather that restricted movement and halted some tourism activities, but conditions have markedly improved, boosting travel confidence for winter visitors exploring the region.
Winter Storm Sweeps Through Brattleboro, Disrupting Travel and Tourism
A powerful winter storm tracked across Vermont in the closing days of January, delivering heavy snowfall and extreme cold that turned roads into slippery hazards across Brattleboro and surrounding areas. The National Weather Service issued a Winter Storm Warning for the Brattleboro region, forecasting substantial snow and hazardous travel conditions, and local authorities responded by issuing a travel advisory to keep non‑essential drivers off the roads.
This advisory was issued as snow accumulated and wind chills plunged, affecting road visibility and surface conditions, prompting town officials and road crews to work continuously to clear key routes and ensure safety for residents and visitors.
Official Forecasts Underpin Travel Advisory Decisions
The National Weather Service (NWS) provided regular updates as the storm evolved, noting widespread snow and dangerously low temperatures. Accumulations were expected to build significantly in the region, with hazardous travel predicted during peak periods of the storm. Official NWS winter weather forecasts warned that the combination of snow and wind chill threatened to impact mobility for several days.
Much of southern Vermont, including the Brattleboro area, experienced multi‑inch snowfall, and storm models projected snow continuing through peak travel times. These conditions directly influenced the timing of travel advisory decisions and led to coordinated safety responses by the town’s public works departments.
Travel Advisory Issued to Protect Residents and Tourists
Town officials in Brattleboro announced the travel advisory as forecasts worsened, urging residents and visitors to stay off the roads except for emergencies. This proactive advisory was intended to allow snow clearing operations to proceed efficiently and to prevent accidents in icy conditions that affect networked routes such as Route 9, a major corridor linking Brattleboro with other parts of Vermont.
Advertisement
Advertisement
At the height of the advisory, parking bans were enforced in key areas to facilitate municipal ploughing efforts, and residents were reminded by local officials to limit travel where possible.
Roads Clear, Conditions Stabilise as Advisory Is Lifted
By noon on the latest advisory day, the town reported that road conditions had improved sufficiently and that crews had made significant progress clearing snow and restoring safe travel routes for ordinary traffic. This allowed the travel advisory to be officially lifted. The decision signalled a shift for travellers and the local tourism sector, indicating that winter visitors could once again explore Brattleboro’s attractions with reduced risk.
Advertisement
Advertisement
While snow showers may still occur, current forecasts suggest that conditions will remain stable enough for safe travel, and officials emphasised ongoing caution as motorists return to roads previously impacted by the storm.
What Visitors Should Know Before Travelling
Although the travel advisory has ended, winter conditions remain a factor for visitors planning to explore Vermont’s landscapes and seasonal activities. The NWS 7‑day forecast for Brattleboro continues to show potential snow and cold temperatures, with snow chances persisting although at lower intensities.
Visitors are advised to keep updated on local forecasts via official channels such as weather.gov and to prepare for typical Vermont winter conditions, including packing appropriate gear and planning for possible slow travel segments, especially in rural or elevated areas.
Local Tourism Sector Eyes Renewed Activity
The lifting of the travel advisory has been welcomed by tourism and hospitality operators in Brattleboro, whose winter footfall had dipped during the advisory period. Travel‑related businesses, from cosy inns to downtown galleries and outdoor adventure providers, now look forward to a resurgence of winter travellers eager to experience Vermont’s charm. Brattleboro’s winter calendar, traditionally filled with art shows, music events and riverside walks, stands to regain momentum as visitors return under safer conditions.
Safety Reminders for Winter Travel Through Brattleboro
In a joint reminder, local authorities and the Vermont Department of Health have reiterated basic vinter safety advice for travellers, including dressing in layers, limiting exposure during periods of extreme cold, and seeking shelter if conditions worsen. These safety practices are part of standard guidance for anyone travelling through snow‑prone regions such as Brattleboro during winter months.
Even as normal travel resumes, motorists should maintain awareness of potential black ice, drifting snow and sudden changes in weather conditions, particularly on less‑travelled rural roads leading into and out of Brattleboro.
Brattleboro Travel Back on Track After Storm
As Brattleboro transitions out of its winter travel advisory phase and into a period of clearer skies and safer roads, the town’s inviting atmosphere and New England winter appeal stand ready to welcome visitors. What began as a disruptive storm event has now become a story of recovery and resilience — with tourism, travel and community life once again moving forward.
Whether travellers are seeking cozy daytime strolls through historic streets or scenic drives along snow‑lined country roads, Brattleboro’s travel landscape is once again accessible — reminding visitors that even after the harshest weather, the warmth of local hospitality and adventure await.


