Violent thunderstorms and torrential rain led to severe flooding in northeastern Vermont, nearly three weeks after the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl. Flash flood warnings were in effect as some areas received up to 8 inches of rain. Lyndonville was particularly affected, with homes being pushed off their foundations and roads being washed away. Rescuers had to save people stranded in the floodwaters, with one resident recalling how he was able to save neighbors this time after witnessing a man drown earlier in the month. Despite significant damage and destruction of property, there were no reports of serious injuries or deaths.
The state of Vermont has experienced multiple flooding events in the last year, attributed to climate change, mountainous geography, and saturated soil. State officials are working to address vulnerabilities in infrastructure such as roads, bridges, culverts, and wastewater facilities to prevent future flooding. The community is also grappling with a sense of loss and devastation, with one resident describing the scenes as apocalyptic. The recent flooding has underscored the need for better management of rivers and streams, as well as the establishment of statewide floodplain standards. The hope is to prevent such catastrophic events in the future and safeguard residents and their property from the impacts of severe weather events.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com