Vermont, USA - A State of Disaster has been declared for all 14 counties of Vermont after two months' worth of rain fell in just two days, triggering the worst flooding since Tropical Storm Irene in 2011. The devastation caused by the floods has been described by Vermont Governor Phil Scott as "historic and catastrophic."

Governor Scott announced on 11 July 2023 that President Biden had approved his request for a disaster declaration, allowing federal resources to be mobilized to support the state's response and recovery efforts. The flooding has surpassed levels seen during Tropical Storm Irene, with areas such as Montpelier, Barre, Ludlow, Londonderry, Andover, and surrounding towns being the hardest hit. Other towns across the state are also experiencing significant flooding.

Vermont's 13 swift water rescue teams have been conducting numerous rescues throughout the state, with assistance from rescue crews from Connecticut, Massachusetts, and North Carolina. Additionally, five helicopters from the Vermont and New Hampshire National Guards have been deployed to evacuate residents in remote and heavily affected areas that are inaccessible by swift water teams.

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Burlington, VT, reported unofficial rainfall observations from a 38-hour period ending on 11 July 2023. Notable rainfall totals include Plymouth in Windsor County with 9.05 inches, Ludlow with 6.23 inches, Montpelier Airport with 6.82 inches, Barre with 7.80 inches, and Andover with 8.65 inches. The NWS has also forecasted further rainfall in the coming days, which could renew the threat of additional flooding.

River levels in Vermont have risen dramatically, with the Winooski River in Montpelier experiencing a 14-foot surge within 20 hours on 10 July. The river reached a crest of 21.25 feet, well above the Major Flood Stage of 17.5 feet. While water levels have started receding, the Winooski River at Essex Junction remains above the Major Flood Stage.

The flooding has not been limited to Vermont, as neighboring states New Hampshire and Massachusetts also experienced heavy rain and flooding during this period. In New Hampshire, roads were flooded in several municipalities, leading to the evacuation of 150 people from a campsite in Swanzey. Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey reported flooding in central and western parts of the state, with rescue crews evacuating residents from flooded homes along the Mill River in Williamsburg.

The impacts of the slow-moving storm have been felt beyond Vermont, with heavy rainfall causing flooding in parts of New York, particularly in Orange and Ontario Counties. Tragically, one person lost their life after being swept away by floodwaters in Highland Falls.

As the situation continues to evolve, Vermont and neighboring states are actively working to mitigate the effects of the flooding and provide assistance to affected communities.