As a reminder that we are heading into the heart of hurricane season, flash flooding disasters have already impacted parts of the United States. The Northeast region experienced severe and devastating flooding as torrential rain poured down. In parts of Vermont, the downpour reached a staggering 9 inches, leading to the destruction of radio towers that played a crucial role in dispatching emergency vehicles. Emergency personnel, including police, fire, and public works crews, were forced to relocate to a water treatment plant in a nearby town due to significant flooding at various key facilities, such as the police department’s basement, city hall, and the fire department.
Recognizing the severity of the situation, the President declared a state of emergency in Vermont. Governor Phil Scott issued a warning to residents that the water levels were still rising early on Tuesday.
Emergency Restoration Contractors and Disaster Professionals Working Around the clock in Vermont
The floodwaters in Vermont, like in many cases, contained a hazardous mixture of chemicals extracted from flooded buildings, including gasoline, paint, sewage, and household cleaners. This posed a serious concern for local businesses, particularly because the flooding occurred during Vermont’s peak summer tourist season, adding yet another challenge to their already struggling operations.
In downtown Montpelier, Vermont, the floodwaters caused blockages and inflicted damage on cars and shops. The heavy rains forced rivers to overflow, resulting in widespread road flooding throughout the Northeast. Nearly 4 million people across the region were affected by flood warnings, watches, or alerts, including areas in New York, New Hampshire, and Maine.
Given the gravity of the situation, six swift-water rescue teams were activated in New York state, where rainfall exceeded 8 inches in certain areas. Orange, Westchester, Ulster, Putnam, Dutchess, and Rockland Counties experienced numerous road closures. In response, Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency for Orange and Ontario counties.
