A private bridge in Middlesex destroyed by the flood. Photo courtesy ACCD.
FEMA in Vermont
Agency of Commerce and Community Development FEMA is in Vermont this week conducting assessments to determine if Vermont qualifies for a Public Assistance Disaster Declaration in the following counties:
- Addison
- Orleans
- Washington
- Caledonia
- Chittenden
- Lamoille
- Orange
- Essex
Those public disaster assessments are expected to be completed by Monday, July 22.
After the public disaster assessments are done, FEMA will assess personal property damage in Washington and Caledonia Counties to determine if Vermont qualifies for an Individual Assistance Disaster Declaration. Other counties can be added if enough damage is reported. See below to learn how to report your damage to 211.
Document 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. See “Debris Removal” for more on debris pickup.
- Set aside hazardous materials for later disposal.
- Take pictures, videos, and notes during cleanup.
- Save receipts to keep track of your clean up expenses.
Report all home, business, and farm damage to Vermont 211 even if you are not submitting an insurance claim. 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 only being used only to help the state assess the extent of the damage as it applies for a federal disaster declaration.
Shelters on Standby
As of July 19, shelters in Barre and Lyndonville are on standby status. If you are in need of shelter, call 211.
Flood-related debris pickup will likely only happen once in each community at the end of July. Don't miss this opportunity to get it to the curb so it can be hauled away.
Landslide Danger
There have been several landslides in the wake of last week’s flooding. If you suspect that a bank is unstable or if you have a landslide to report, reach out to ANR.
Agency of Commerce and Community Development
1 National Life Dr
Montpelier, VT 05620-5001