Emergency responders in Vermont rushed to aid residents in flooded areas of northeast Vermont on Tuesday following a rare 1-in-1,000-year rainfall event that caused a surge of deadly floodwaters for the second time in just a few weeks. Swift-water rescue teams carried out around two dozen rescues in hard-hit areas of Caledonia and Essex counties, where flash flood emergencies were issued as the storm dumped inches of rain in a matter of hours. St. Johnsbury, Vermont, saw nearly 7 inches of rain in just 6 hours, marking a historic event that typically occurs only once in a millennium under normal conditions.

The extreme rainfall, which has led to catastrophic flooding, is believed to be linked to climate change, with scientists asserting that rising temperatures and increased fossil fuel pollution contribute to heavier rainfall and more intense storms. As the region braces for more rainfall, rescue teams remain on high alert to respond to any further distress calls throughout the day.

The devastation caused by the flooding is evident, with roads washed out and numerous state road closures in effect. Structural and road damages have been reported in many areas, exacerbating the challenges faced by affected residents. For some communities like Lyndonville, the recurrence of such severe flood events has left residents reeling, with one resident recalling the alarming sound of rushing water and tumbling boulders as the nearby Passumpsic River rose dramatically.

Amid the destruction, stories of resilience and hope emerge, such as that of the owners of Papa Tirozzi's Bakery, Pizza, and Fish Shack in St. Johnsbury. Nancy and Anthony Tirozzi, faced with the devastating impact of the floodwaters, are determined to restore their business and serve their community once again. Despite the challenges ahead, their unwavering spirit and belief in their community's strength keep them optimistic about the future.

The recent flooding in Vermont marks the third significant flood event to strike the state in just over a year, following the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl and previous flooding incidents. As the cleanup and recovery efforts begin, Vermonters unite to support each other and rebuild their communities in the face of this latest natural disaster.