Vermont faces statewide flooding; officials urge caution

Local and state officials in Vermont are responding to flooding caused by heavy rains statewide, following catastrophic floods in July that brought severe damage. Most parts of the state are under a flood watch until Tuesday morning.

In a press conference late Monday afternoon, Gov. Phil Scott acknowledged the hardship Monday's conditions have brought to Vermonters. Scott said the state is "working around the clock" with its local and federal partners to help Vermont through this latest flooding.

"Although there will be damage to infrastructure, homes and businesses, we do not expect this to be the same scale as July," Scott said. "That being said, some of the places that were impacted in July are currently experiencing flooding once again. So for them, this is July, and it's a real gut-punch. So no doubt, there will be significant challenges for some, which we're responding to." 

Late afternoon Monday, Route 4 in Woodstock remained open, but other roads were under water, including Fletcher Hill Road by the Lincoln Covered Bridge and also Old River Road near the Taftsville Bridge. 

State and local officials are warning people to avoid flooded roads. 

"If a road is flooded, don't assume there's a road underneath," Scott said Monday. "So if you encounter one, turn around." 

The governor said numerous flooded roadways and mud slides have been reported around Vermont. The combination of rain and ongoing snow melt due to high temperatures made rivers rise very quickly, and they're continuing to do so. The state expects rivers to crest within the next 12 hours or so, Scott added. Vermont officials will be assessing damage during the day Tuesday.

Anyone in immediate danger is advised to call 9-1-1. To sign up for Vermont emergency alerts, go to: vem.vermont.gov/vtalert

Click here for the list of current road closures in Vermont.

Those needing assistance due to flood damage can contact The HUB, which serves residents of Barnard, Bridgewater, Killington, Plymouth, Pomfret, Reading and Woodstock.

— Gareth Henderson