Vermont Faces New Threats as Floodwaters Recede
The devastating floods that engulfed Vermont in the wake of heavy rainfall are slowly receding, but new threats are emerging as the state braces for more rain. Vermont Governor Phil Scott warned that with more rain in the forecast and nowhere for it to go, there is a possibility that waters may rise again. The National Weather Service issued fresh flood watches for parts of New England, including the devastated areas of Vermont.
The extent of the damage caused by the flooding remains unclear, but Vermont Public Safety Commissioner Jennifer Morrison stated that multiple rescues are ongoing and more than 200 people have been rescued so far. Governor Scott estimated that thousands of Vermonters have lost homes and businesses, emphasizing the far-reaching devastation caused by the floods.
While river flooding is expected to subside, the disaster is far from over. Residents returning to their submerged homes face new dangers, and caution is advised when entering flooded properties. Morrison urged residents to report damages to 211 as data is being collected for a possible federal disaster declaration.
Deanne Criswell, the head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), visited Vermont to assess the damage and urged residents to be aware of dangers that persist after the acute phase of flooding. With downed power lines and debris in the water, Criswell emphasized that just six inches of water can be dangerous and potentially fatal.
The worst-hit areas in Vermont include Barre, Ludlow, Londonderry, Andover, and the capital city, Montpelier. In Montpelier, the downtown district was eerily deserted, with occasional canoeists navigating through the flooded streets. Some affected residents, like Laura Camus from Barre, reported not having flood insurance as they do not reside in flood plains.
President Joe Biden has approved an emergency declaration for Vermont, allowing FEMA to provide necessary equipment and resources. Assistance has also been sent from neighboring states, including New Hampshire, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and North Carolina.
Recovery efforts are expected to be extensive, with the public safety commissioner estimating that it will take years, if not a decade, to fully recover from the disaster. Restaurateur Andrew Molen, who owns businesses in Ludlow, reported significant damage to his restaurants and a lengthy period of repairs before reopening. Despite the challenges ahead, Morrison praised the common sense of Vermonters and the life-saving work of emergency crews, which contributed to the absence of fatalities.
Climate scientists are highlighting the role of climate change in exacerbating extreme weather events like the flooding in Vermont. The warmer weather, particularly over the ocean, contributes to increased moisture in the air, which in turn leads to heavy rainfall. Vermont Senator Peter Welch expressed interest in understanding the impact of climate change on the catastrophic flooding, emphasizing the need to address the issue.
The scenes of flooded neighborhoods and residents paddling through streets have drawn comparisons to the devastating Hurricane Irene in 2011. This week’s storms brought floodwaters that exceeded the levels seen during Tropical Storm Irene, according to Governor Scott. The capital city, Montpelier, experienced record-breaking rainfall on Monday, surpassing any other day on record in Vermont’s history.
As Vermont continues to grapple with the aftermath of the floods, the focus is now on recovery and rebuilding efforts. Volunteers are encouraged to support the recovery process by visiting vermont.gov/volunteer. The state will require significant resources and assistance to bounce back from this disaster and ensure the safety and well-being of its residents.