LYNDON, Vt. (AP) — Jason Pilbin, a resident of northeastern Vermont, found himself facing another round of devastating floods in his community just weeks after witnessing a driver being swept away by floodwaters.
During the latest flooding, Pilbin sprang into action around 2:30 a.m. on Tuesday, using a flashlight and headlamp to help neighbors evacuate. He managed to collect vital medications for some neighbors just before their home split in half. He also woke up another neighbor to assist her in leaving her home safely.
Almost three weeks ago, Pilbin had tried to save a man who ultimately drowned in floodwaters caused by the remnants of Hurricane Beryl. Reflecting on the recent events, Pilbin stated, “Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to save him, but I was able to save these individuals. I guess that helps make up for some of it. It’s been a challenging time.”
The violent thunderstorms on Tuesday brought a new wave of floods, resulting in collapsed roads, damaged vehicles, homes being pushed off their foundations, and dramatic boat rescues in northeastern Vermont. Some areas experienced over 8 inches (20 centimeters) of rainfall.
More heavy rain was expected on Wednesday, with a flood watch in effect for central and northern Vermont. The Vermont Emergency Management Agency reported approximately two dozen boat rescues in the hardest-hit areas overnight Monday into Tuesday, with no fatalities or serious injuries reported.
Gov. Phil Scott visited the affected areas on Tuesday, acknowledging the demoralizing impact of the damage. He encouraged Vermonters to come together and support those affected by the flooding.
Vermont had recently enacted a law requiring fossil fuel companies to pay for damages caused by extreme weather linked to climate change. However, the state is facing challenges in collecting funds from the oil industry due to the need for litigation.
Despite debates over the exact influence of climate change on extreme weather events, state officials in Vermont stress the urgent need for accountability and financial support from oil companies for the damage caused by their products.
In St. Johnsbury, Vanessa Allen shared her experience of being unexpectedly trapped by the flooding, describing the situation as “devastating” and “apocalyptic.” The state has seen multiple flooding events over the past year, with heightened vulnerability to flooding attributed to climate change and geological factors.
The state is actively working on floodplain standards and infrastructure improvements to mitigate the impact of future flooding events.
The recent floods have left a lasting impact on Vermont residents, with some expressing a sense of loss and devastation in the face of ongoing challenges posed by climate change and extreme weather events.
Contributors: Sharp reported from Portland, Maine. McCormack reported from Concord, New Hampshire. Additional contributions by reporters Patrick Whittle in Maine and Julie Walker in New York.
