Overcast Monday Leads Into a Rainy Start to September Across Bennington County

Last updated: August 31, 2026

Current Valley Conditions

Good morning, Bennington County. We are starting off the day with partly cloudy skies and comfortable temperatures sitting at 60.7°F in the valley. Winds are calm, registering at just 1.2 mph. Whether you are beginning your morning commute along US-7, heading across the VT-279 bypass, or stepping outside in Old Bennington and North Bennington, it is a calm and mild start. However, a significant transition in our local weather pattern is developing as August concludes and September begins, bringing dry, cloudy skies today followed by substantial rain over the next 48 hours.

Monday, August 31: A Mild, Overcast Finish to August

For today, Monday, August 31, cloud cover will thicken, keeping our skies overcast across southwestern Vermont. Despite the clouds, the day will remain completely dry across the region. We are anticipating a seasonably warm afternoon high reaching 74.4°F, which makes for very comfortable late-summer weather across Shaftsbury, Arlington, and Pownal. Overnight into Tuesday, temperatures will settle to a mild low of 60.5°F under continued cloud cover.

Winds today will stay light, reaching a maximum speed of 7.2 mph. The probability of precipitation is just 7%, with 0 inches of rain expected. This makes Monday the best window of the week to finish outdoor chores, tidy up gardens, or get outside for recreation. If you are taking a stroll around Lake Paran, walking the trails near Mount Anthony, or exploring the foothills of the Green Mountain National Forest, you will enjoy dry paths and comfortable air, though the sun will stay tucked behind a blanket of clouds.

Tuesday, September 1: Heavy Rain Arrives for the Start of September

As the calendar turns to Tuesday, September 1, our weather turns notably wetter. Heavy rain is expected to move across Bennington County. Temperatures will remain relatively mild despite the precipitation, reaching an afternoon high of 69.7°F before dropping to an overnight low of 63.8°F. The atmosphere will feel noticeably humid and damp throughout the Bennington Valley.

The precipitation probability for Tuesday stands at 54%, with forecast models calling for a significant rainfall total of 0.99 inches—nearly a full inch of moisture. Maximum winds will increase slightly to 8.7 mph. With heavy downpours likely at times, local drivers should prepare for wet roadway conditions, water buildup in low-lying spots, and reduced visibility. Travel along the US-7 corridor and especially the steep climb along VT-9 (the Molly Stark Trail) eastward toward Woodford will require caution, reduced speeds, and increased following distance.

Wednesday, September 2: Continued Showers and Cooler, Breezier Air

The damp weather continues into Wednesday, September 2, with moderate rain expected across southwestern Vermont. Precipitation chances rise to 70%, with an additional 0.165 inches of rain projected. As this weather system moves through, slightly cooler air will filter into the area, holding Wednesday’s high to 67.3°F. Wednesday night will bring the coolest temperatures of the period, dropping to a low of 59.2°F.

Winds will also pick up compared to previous days, reaching peak speeds of 12.0 mph. The combination of persistent rain showers, damp roadways, and breezy conditions will create a distinctly brisk, early-autumn feel across both valley towns and elevated mountain passes.

Commuter & Outdoor Safety Across Bennington County

There are currently no active weather watches, warnings, or advisories for Bennington County. However, with heavy to moderate rainfall on the horizon for Tuesday and Wednesday, here are practical tips to keep in mind:

• Road Travel: Watch for ponding water on roads such as US-7, VT-9, and local routes in Pownal, Shaftsbury, and Arlington. Rain and low clouds can create pockets of dense fog along higher terrain on VT-9 heading toward Woodford. Give yourself extra time for morning and evening commutes.
• Outdoor Recreation: Trail surfaces on Mount Anthony and within the Green Mountain National Forest will become slick, muddy, and saturated by Tuesday. If you plan to head out, wear sturdy footwear, carry waterproof gear, and exercise caution near running streams and wet rock surfaces.
• Property and Neighbor Care: With around an inch of rain on Tuesday followed by more rain Wednesday, take advantage of dry conditions today to clear leaves and debris from yard drains, gutters, and downspouts. As rain moves in, ensure outdoor pets have dry shelter, and take a moment to check on elderly neighbors or community members who may need assistance during soggy spells.

The Bottom Line

Enjoy a dry, overcast Monday with a comfortable high of 74.4°F. Keep your rain gear ready for Tuesday as heavy rain brings nearly an inch of precipitation (0.99 inches) and a high of 69.7°F, followed by moderate showers, a high of 67.3°F, and breezy winds reaching 12.0 mph on Wednesday.

Weather data provided by Open-Meteo.

Related: Damp Late-August Stretch Brings Rain, Drizzle, and Cooler Temperatures to Bennington County