As a result of July 2024 flooding, the Agency of Commerce and Community Development has established this page to serve as a resource center. This page will be consistently updated with the latest information ACCD has available.
Shelters
There are currently two shelters open in Vermont:
Barre Auditorium
16 Auditorium Hill
Barre
Lyndonville Fire Department
316 Main Street
Lyndonville
Road Closures
For the latest state road closures, please visit https://newengland511.org/.
Please note: local road closures are not reported to the state so that information is not available. Please respect all local detours.
A Safe Return
Going back to a flood damaged home or business will likely expose you to some hazards. Be prepared for what you might find by visiting this Vermont Department of Health website. It includes several tips including how to protect yourself when cleaning up debris, getting rid of mold, and what to do if you are on well water.
Free water test kits are being made available to Vermonters with impacted wells. You can obtain one online or by visiting your local health office.
To report a hazardous material spill, call 802-828-1138.
Children and anyone with weakened immune systems or respiratory problems should not help with clean up.
FEMA Damage Assessments
The state of Vermont has requested a damage assessment from FEMA to determine if Vermont qualifies for a Public Assistance Disaster Declaration. Assessments will be done in the following counties:
- Addison
- Orleans
- Washington
- Caledonia
- Chittenden
- Lamoille
- Orange
- Essex
The state has also requested a damage assessment from FEMA to determine if Vermont qualifies for an Individual Assistance Disaster Declaration. Assessments will be done in Washington and Caledonia Counties.
Document and Remove Damage
Documenting your damage is important for two reasons: 1) it will be useful if you submit an insurance claim and 2) it will help the state apply for federal disaster assistance. Below are tips to help you with this process:
- Take pictures, videos, and notes before you start cleaning.
- Open windows and doors.
- Get all wet stuff outside.
- Use fans and dehumidifiers if safe.
- Move flood-related debris to the right-of-way. State and local leaders are currently working on plans to remove it. Set aside hazardous materials for later disposal.
- Take pictures, videos, and notes during the clean up.
- Save receipts to keep track of your clean up expenses.
- Report all damage, even if you are not submitting an insurance claim, to Vermont 211. To do this electronically, use the “Resident Form” or “Business Form”. You can also call 211 to report damage, but online reporting is preferred.
All data reported to Vermont 211 is being used only to get a big picture of the storm's wrath to help the state assess the extent of the damage as it applies for a federal disaster declaration.
Crisis Cleanup Hotline
Vermont's Crisis Cleanup Hotline has been activated. Vermonters can request assistance cleaning out their homes, businesses, or nonprofit organizations from volunteer groups. Call 802-242-2054 to get help or visit www.crisiscleanup.org.
Volunteer to Help
Vermonters who would like to volunteer for the Crisis Cleanup team or to help with other tasks can register at www.vermont.gov/volunteer. Registrants will be notified of volunteer needs in their community.
Make a Donation
Donations can make a world of difference in the wake of a natural disaster. The state is accepting some donations. Call 888-653-7715 or email donations@vermont.gov to help. You can also contribute to the Vermont Community Foundation's Flood Response and Recovery Fund. Local charities are best for donations of food and clothing.
Mental Health Help
Flooding is extremely traumatizing. Some people are experiencing losses for the second or third time in a year. Here is some advice for taking care of yourself during this difficult time from Vermont’s Mental Health Commissioner Emily Hawes:
- Stay informed, but limit news exposure. Take media breaks to protect your mental health.
- Rely only on trusted sources for information.
- Keep in regular contact with family and friends.
- Acknowledge your feelings. Anxiety, fear, and a sense of helplessness are normal.
- Prioritize self-care including getting enough rest.
There are also several hotlines available if you need to talk to someone:
- You can access Starting Over Strong Vermont by calling 211.
- Dial 988 for the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline which will connect you to someone locally.
- 800-985-5990 is the national Disaster Distress Hotline.
Sign up for the Severe Storm Recovery Newsletter
The Agency will be providing updates on the recovery efforts via the Severe Storm Recovery Newsletter. Please sign up here to receive these updates.