In the aftermath of severe flooding in Vermont, state leaders, led by Governor Phil Scott, are collaborating to aid the affected communities. The devastating floods, which occurred on Wednesday and Thursday, have tragically claimed the lives of two individuals: 33-year-old Dylan Kempton of Peacham and 73-year-old John Rice of Concord.

Governor Scott emphasized that immediate focus is on assisting the impacted individuals and communities. However, it will take several days to fully assess the extent of the damage and determine the necessary funding and resources for long-term recovery throughout the state. Drawing lessons from last year's flooding, Scott stressed the importance of expediting recovery efforts.

As of Friday, most rescue operations have been completed, and out-of-state swift water rescue teams have been relieved, according to Public Safety Commissioner Jennifer Morrison. All state swift water rescue teams have also returned home. The combined efforts of these teams have successfully rescued 120 people and 15 animals while assisting numerous evacuations. Local first responders have played a crucial role in these rescue and assistance operations.

Although most rivers in the state have returned to normal levels, some rivers, including the Passumpsic River, the Winooski River at Essex Junction, and the Lamoille River at Jeffersonville, are still experiencing floods. However, these rivers are gradually receding. Despite the forecasted thunderstorms for the weekend, Morrison assured that there are no additional flood risks. However, with the expected high heat, she urged residents and volunteers to take extra precautions to avoid heat-related injuries.

As of this morning, there were 150 reported power outages across the state. Morrison noted that restoring power in some areas may take longer due to the extensive damage caused by the flooding. So far, 250 damage reports have been submitted to Vermont 211, but officials suspect that there are many more unreported cases. The State Emergency Response Center remains active, offering support 24/7. Morrison encouraged residents to document any damage and report it to 211 to help Vermont qualify for federal aid.

Volunteers willing to assist can sign up on the website www.Vermont.gov/volunteer. Additionally, monetary donations can be made to the Vermont Community Foundations Response at www.Vermontfloodresponse.org.

Transportation Secretary Joe Flynn announced that the Agency of Transportation will release $29.5 million in town highway aid payments by early August. The first $14 million will be disbursed next week to assist towns grappling with flood damage. Currently, only 18 state-run roadways are closed, along with 8 state-owned bridges. However, numerous town and village roads remain impassable due to the flooding.

Unfortunately, the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail also suffered damage, particularly in the West Danville area. Three sections of the trail are currently open for recreational use. Rail closures have also been reported in Barre, Barnet, Passumpsic, Orleans, and Coventry.

The Agency of Natural Resources, represented by Secretary Julie Moore, assured that dams across the state are being closely monitored and there are no known issues. All three major dams have undergone inspections and have sufficient capacity. Additionally, the seven at-risk dams in the Northeast Kingdom have been inspected and pose no risk of damage.

Several towns, including Barre City, Lyndonville, Barnet, Plainfield, St. Johnsbury, Hardwick, and Richmond, have expressed concerns about their drinking water systems. Efforts are being made to address these concerns promptly.

It is evident that Vermont continues to grapple with the aftermath of devastating flooding. However, with the collective efforts of state leaders, first responders, volunteers, and the resilient spirit of affected communities, the state will surely recover and rebuild.