Vermont Records Third Consecutive Year July Flooding Across Counties

Vermont has faced severe flooding on July 10 for three consecutive years, with 2023 and 2024 causing over $1 billion in damages across the state. The town of Sutton and other northern Vermont areas experienced significant flooding again this year, prompting water rescues and road closures, although the damage was more localized compared to previous years. Residents like George Boone expressed frustration and fear as their properties continue to be eroded by floodwaters. Experts link the increasing severity of these storms to climate change, with warmer air holding more moisture, leading to heavier precipitation events. In response, Vermont is updating its Climate Action Plan to address these impacts, and local communities are pushing for federal reforms, such as Senator Peter Welch’s proposed Disaster Assistance Improvement and Decentralization Act, which aims to streamline FEMA’s disaster response and empower local authorities. Despite efforts to improve infrastructure and resilience, officials warn that natural disasters will continue, underscoring the need for better preparedness and community-led recovery.