President Biden has signed off on a significant disaster declaration for Vermont, allowing federal funds to assist those affected by flooding from July 9 to July 11, which resulted from the remnants of Hurricane Beryl. Governor Phil Scott has also submitted a separate request for a disaster declaration due to flood damage caused by storms on July 30.
The impact of Beryl’s remnants led to more than 6 inches of rainfall in a short period in various parts of Vermont, leading to the destruction and damage of homes, the collapse of bridges, isolation of towns, and the retraumatization of residents still recovering from severe floods a year earlier. Tragically, two individuals lost their lives during the flooding – one in Lyndonville and another in Peacham.
The disaster declaration offers federal aid to residents in several counties, including Addison, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Lamoille, Orleans, and Washington. This assistance extends to supporting communities in these counties to mend flood-damaged roads and bridges. Governor Scott emphasized the significance of this financial aid in aiding the state’s recovery, acknowledging the substantial impact of the storm on communities and individuals.
Furthermore, Governor Scott has sought a different natural disaster designation from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide assistance to farmers in various counties who were impacted by the flooding. The correct timeframe for the flooding incident is from July 9 to July 11.
