President Biden Declares State of Emergency in Vermont as Deadly Floods Wreak Havoc
In a swift response to the devastating flash floods that have struck Vermont, President Joe Biden has declared a state of emergency in the state. The torrential downpours, triggered by heavy rain, have resulted in life-threatening conditions and widespread destruction.
This declaration will enable the federal government to release crucial resources and coordinate efforts to aid the affected areas. As Vermont anticipates further heavy rain throughout Tuesday, the state will now receive the necessary support to combat the ongoing crisis.
The flash floods have submerged numerous roads, leaving people trapped in their homes. Emergency teams have already conducted numerous rescues, responding to distress calls from desperate residents in inaccessible areas. Additional rescue teams from North Carolina, Michigan, and Connecticut have been dispatched to assist with the life-saving operations.
The severity of the flooding in New York and Vermont surpasses any seen in over a decade in the north-eastern region. The dangerous flash floods are expected to pose a continued risk until Tuesday evening.
Vermont emergency officials have issued a press release strongly urging residents to evacuate their homes to higher ground as soon as possible. They emphasize the potential danger of floodwaters compromising escape routes, leaving people stranded. Safety remains the primary concern for authorities and rescue teams who are preparing for challenging conditions due to the forecasted rain.
The towns of Londonderry, Weston, Bridgewater, Andover, Ludlow, and Middlesex have witnessed the majority of the rescues so far. In response to the escalating situation, Montpelier, Vermont’s capital, has ordered the closure of its downtown area until at least midday on Tuesday. This measure will allow officials to conduct safety assessments and commence clean-up operations.
Throughout Monday night, fears were heightened regarding three dams in Vermont nearing capacity. However, officials have since allayed concerns, stating a reduced likelihood of overflow. While water will still be released from the dams, it will be in smaller quantities than previously anticipated. Many river levels have already peaked and are gradually receding.
Flood watches remain in effect for various parts of Vermont, as well as New York, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, and Connecticut. The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts that the rainfall will gradually diminish throughout Tuesday, bringing an end to the prolonged period of significant rainfall in New England.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul addressed the situation in a news conference, describing the storm’s impact as cars swirling in the streets. Although she stated that the worst of the storm has passed, she emphasized the necessity for continued vigilance.
Tragically, a woman in her 30s lost her life on Sunday in Orange County, New York. She was swept away while attempting to escape her home with her dog. The relentless force of the floodwaters caused her to lose her footing, and she was tragically washed away into a ravine.
Communities in Orange County have experienced substantial damage to homes, businesses, and roads as a result of the severe flooding. Climate change plays a significant role in such extreme weather events, as a warming atmosphere increases the likelihood of heavy rainfall.
With global temperatures already having risen by approximately 1.1°C since the beginning of the industrial era, urgent action is required to prevent further warming. Governments worldwide must make substantial cuts to emissions to curb the impacts of climate change.
As the rescue efforts continue and communities rally together to recover from the devastation, the focus remains on providing immediate assistance and support to the affected regions.