Two People Were Killed by Last Week’s Flooding
Flooding in Vermont followed storms that dropped as much as 6 inches of rain in parts of the state. Vermont is now seeking a federal damage assessment to determine whether the flooding qualifies for a federal disaster declaration and aid. The remnants of Hurricane Beryl caused significant damage, a year after the state experienced catastrophic flooding. Some victims of the previous flooding are still awaiting home buyouts or repairs.
Key Points
- Two fatalities: A motorist in Lyndonville and a man on an ATV in Peacham.
- Hardest-hit communities: Barre, Hardwick, Lyndonville, Moretown, Plainfield.
- Estimated damage: $15 million to roads and other public infrastructure.
Governor’s Statement
“We know this storm has done tremendous damage in many communities, and those impacted will need help to recover,” Gov. Phil Scott said in a statement Saturday. “That’s why it’s so critical for Vermonters to report their damage to help us demonstrate the need for these federal resources.”
Impacted Areas and Damage
| Community | Type of Damage |
|---|---|
| Barre | Riverside damage |
| Hardwick | Washed-out roads |
| Lyndonville | Bridges knocked down |
| Moretown | Homes damaged |
| Plainfield | Public infrastructure affected |
The flooding has led to substantial damage, with eight of Vermont’s fourteen counties needing assessments. Damage assessments will determine if the state qualifies for federal aid. A public assistance disaster declaration could provide 75% reimbursement to communities for responding to and repairing public infrastructure.
Financial Thresholds for Federal Aid
| Requirement | Amount Needed |
|---|---|
| Statewide | $1.1 million in recovery costs |
| County | $4.60 per capita |
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) must verify at least $1.1 million in response and public infrastructure recovery costs for Vermont to qualify for a major disaster declaration. Counties must show damages of $4.60 per capita to qualify.
Assistance for Homeowners and Renters
An individual assistance declaration would offer financial help to homeowners and renters for property losses. People are encouraged to report property losses by calling 211 or visiting www.vermont211.org.
Contact Information for Reporting Property Losses:
- Phone: 211
- Online: Vermont 211
Your cooperation is essential in securing federal aid to recover from this disaster.
Immanuel Matthew is an experienced journalist with a passion for delivering accurate and timely news updates. As a seasoned professional at dynews.net, Immanuel Matthew ensures that every story meets the highest standards of journalistic integrity and clarity. Matthew brings insightful reporting to readers, covering a wide range of topics with depth and precision.