Governor Phil Scott Provides Update on State's Response to Catastrophic Flooding

Press Release

"I know the last 48 hours haven't been easy for many. I actually had to hike the VAST trail to get to a drivable road to get home and to work this morning.

I also know some reporters slept in their cars last night, along with many others due to I-89 being closed, and I appreciate members of the media for their work to keep Vermonters informed and safe.

Earlier today, while overseas, President Biden approved my request for a disaster declaration for all 14 Counties.

This will help mobilize federal resources to support our response and recovery efforts for this unfolding and ongoing disaster.

Make no mistake, the devastation and flooding we're experiencing across Vermont is historic and catastrophic.

Flood waters continue to rise in some places like our capital city and have surpassed levels seen during Tropical Storm Irene.

The good news is the rain has stopped in some areas, but that DOES NOT mean waters will immediately recede.

They may in fact continue to rise.

Even though the sun may shine later today and tomorrow, we expect more rain later this week which will have nowhere to go in the over-saturated ground.

So I want to be clear, we are not out of the woods.

This is nowhere near over, and at this phase, our primary focus continues to be on life and safety before we can shift into a recovery phase.

I know thousands of Vermonters have lost homes, businesses and more. The devastation is far reaching.

Although the comings days, weeks and months will be incredibility difficult, we've faced challenges before, and Vermonters have risen to meet the moment.

Whether during Irene, COVID or other hardships, Vermonters have proven time and time again we're willing and able to step up and help our neighbors.

We're already seeing that again here, and this spirit of resilience and goodwill will help get us through this challenge.

So many Vermonters have been working around the clock, saving lives, and helping those in need.

We're all in their debt and will be forever grateful.

But it will take all of us, pulling in the same direction. So, I'm asking all Vermonters to think about how you can help locally. Even just checking in on a neighbor can make a big difference.

Again, if you need help, call 2-1-1 or if you're in a life-threatening situation, call 9-1-1."

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