Catastrophic flooding swamped Vermont’s capital due to intense storms in Northeast. The torrential downpour overwhelmed drainage systems and caused rivers to overflow, leading to widespread waterlogging and submerging streets. The city's infrastructure was unable to cope with the deluge, leaving residents and businesses severely affected.
Gov. Phil Scott said:
“„Make no mistake, the devastation and flooding we’re experiencing across Vermont is historic and catastrophic.- Gov. Phil Scott
The severity of the flooding prompted emergency evacuations as local authorities worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of residents. People were forced to leave their homes as rising floodwaters posed a significant risk to their well-being. Evacuation centers were set up to provide temporary shelter and support for those affected by the disaster.
The governor claimed that floodwaters in several regions "surpassed levels seen during Tropical Storm Irene." In August 2011, Irene made landfall in the United States as a hurricane, submerging large neighborhoods and leaving more than 40 people dead in many Eastern states.
Authorities imposed a travel ban in downtown Montpelier that was in effect until Tuesday (July 11, 2023) afternoon. After officials warned that the "extreme flooding" could contaminate the city's water supply, a boil water advisory is still in effect.
Furthermore, the flooding led to the closure of numerous roads, bridges, and public facilities. The swift and forceful nature of the floods rendered these vital infrastructure components impassable and potentially unsafe. Local authorities and emergency services had to divert their efforts towards securing the affected areas and managing the immediate aftermath of the disaster.
The National Weather Service in Burlington reported that a record-breaking 5.28 inches of rain fell on the city on Monday (July 10, 2023). It rained 5.27 inches more in the state capital on August 28, 2011, during Hurricane Irene, than it did on any other day in recorded history.
The state of emergency in Vermont is still in effect, and on Tuesday, water in downtown Montpelier was knee to waist deep, trapping people inside their houses and closing down highways and businesses. In the state, the water prompted more than 100 rescues and forced forcible evacuations.
Government agencies, community organizations, and volunteers collaborated to provide relief and aid to those affected by the flooding. Temporary shelters were established, offering food, shelter, and medical assistance to displaced individuals. Cleanup and restoration efforts began once the floodwaters receded, with teams working diligently to assess the damage and initiate repairs to infrastructure and public facilities.
Gov. Chris Sununu announced that New Hampshire would send fast boat rescue teams and Black Hawk helicopters to help in the response to the floods in Vermont. According to the Vermont Department of Public Safety, teams from Connecticut, Massachusetts, and North Carolina are already in Vermont to help, and more are on their way.
According to Police Chief Eric Nordenson on Tuesday, the police department in Montpelier moved its dispatch, police, and fire operations owing to severe flooding in the basement of City Hall and the fire and police departments.
After water levels earlier in the day drew closer to the dam's spillway, authorities were also keeping an eye on the Wrightsville Dam in Montpelier as of late Tuesday.
Catastrophic flooding swamped Vermont’s capital due to intense storms in Northeast. It serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of nature. The event prompted widespread evacuations, closures, and significant challenges for affected communities.
The response from emergency responders, volunteers, and various organizations highlighted the resilience and collective effort in times of crisis. As recovery efforts continue, it is crucial to prioritize long-term solutions to address the risks associated with climate change and better protect vulnerable regions from the devastating impact of intense storms and flooding.