Vermont Emergency Management

06/19/2026

This week, Vermont Emergency Management hosted a tabletop exercise simulating a train derailment in the town of Chester. The discussion-based drill in our Emergency Operations Center was designed to identify strengths and weaknesses in local and state plans regarding a derailment and chemical release. The town of Chester, Vermont Railway, and several state agencies participated in the exercise.

06/19/2026

Rain this weekend.

Cool and unsettled weather expected today into this upcoming weekend.
The highest probability of showers with embedded rumbles of thunder will be Saturday and Sunday afternoon. Highs mid 60s to mid 70s.

06/18/2026

A line of showers and thunderstorms is tracking eastward through portions of northern New York. By 1 PM, it will be moving into the Champlain Valley and begin exiting Vermont by 3 PM. These times are approximate, for a look at real-time radar, check: https://radar.weather.gov/station/KCXX/standard

06/18/2026

06/18/2026

[Thursday, June 18]
Tornado Watch for Vermont. If a Warning pops up in your area, go to your basement, safe room, or an interior room away from windows. Don't forget pets. Subscribe to Vermont Alert for updates: www.vtalert.gov

[10 AM 6/18] Damaging winds are possible along a convective line moving eastward through 3 PM today, with a few tornadoes possible. Please have multiple ways to get alerts as warnings are issued today!!

06/18/2026

[Thursday, June 18]
Strong wind gusts could potentially lead to some power outages today. Charge your phone, make sure the flashlights have batteries, and never leave candles unattended. https://vem.vermont.gov/preparedness/power-outages

Strong and gusty southerly winds are expected today, which may cause isolated to scattered power outages. Driving high profile vehicles could be difficult. A few strong to locally severe thunderstorms are possible this afternoon.

06/17/2026

Serious wind is on the way.

*Be prepared for possible power outages on Thursday*

A seasonally unusual windstorm is expected Thursday with south winds gusting into the 40 to 55 MPH range. In addition to these widespread strong winds during the day, thunderstorms capable of isolated damaging winds will also develop. The potential for severe thunderstorms is primarily during the afternoon.

06/15/2026

Congratulations to Blake Harrison, Department of Public Safety recipient of a 2026 Public Service Recognition Award! Blake is the Site Coordinator at the Vermont Fire Academy, and he demonstrates a deep commitment to our mission every day. He works tirelessly to meet the needs of Vermont’s firefighters and the public that we serve with an infectious “can do” attitude that is matched by his abilities. DPS is proud and appreciative of all that Blake brings to public service.

06/15/2026

🏆 Congratulations to Assistant State Fire Marshal Chris Boyd! 🏆

The Vermont Division of Fire Safety is proud to recognize Assistant State Fire Marshal Chris Boyd for being named Fire Investigator of the Year by the VT international Association of Arson Investigators

Chris has been an original member of the Department of Public Safety’s Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit (FEIU) and has dedicated countless years to advancing the profession of fire investigation in Vermont. As the Senior Investigator for the Division of Fire Safety, Chris is a highly respected leader, mentor, and trusted source of knowledge within our organization. His experience, professionalism, and commitment to excellence have helped shape the next generation of fire investigators while strengthening our mission to serve the people of Vermont.

Chris’s leadership, dedication, and willingness to share his expertise have made him an invaluable member of our team. We are honored to work alongside him and grateful for the impact he continues to have on the fire service and fire investigation community.

Please join us in congratulating Chris on this well-deserved recognition. We are proud to have him on our team and thank him for his continued service to Vermont.

National Association of Fire Investigators, International
National Association of State Fire Marshals

🚒🔥

06/14/2026