Vermonters Struggle To Rebuild After Devastating Floods

Lisa Edson-Neveu, 52 poses for a portrait at her house in Montpelier, Vt., July 3, 2024 that was damaged by the 2023 flood. A year after catastrophic flooding inundated parts of Vermont, some homeowne

A year after devastating flooding hit parts of Vermont, many residents are still grappling with the aftermath. Homes remain in disrepair, with families like Lisa Edson Neveu and her sons living amidst unrepaired damage. The process of dealing with insurance companies, adjusters, and government agencies has been arduous and frustrating for many affected by the floods.

The city of Montpelier is still assessing which homes can be elevated or bought with allocated funding. The uncertainty has left residents like Neveu and her neighbor anxious about the future. While the city has made progress in reopening businesses and restoring downtown buildings, the recovery process for individual homes is slow and complex.

Statewide, over 3,160 homes qualified for repair assistance from FEMA, with some homeowners expressing interest in buyouts. The impact of the flooding has been profound, with residents like Ed Haggett facing financial strain and bureaucratic hurdles in rebuilding their lives.

In response to the increasing frequency of extreme weather events linked to climate change, Vermont passed a law requiring fossil fuel companies to contribute to the costs of damages. While this marks a proactive step, the road to recovery for many Vermonters is still long and uncertain.

Residents like Lisa Edson Neveu facing challenges with home repairs and insurance claims.

Many Vermont residents still dealing with aftermath of flooding a year later.

City of Montpelier assessing homes for elevation or buyouts post-flooding.

Over 3,160 homes in Vermont qualified for FEMA repair assistance.

Vermont residents experiencing financial strain and bureaucratic hurdles in recovery.

Vermont passed law requiring fossil fuel companies to contribute to flood damage costs.

Recovery process for individual homes slow and complex post-flooding.

Residents in Barre and Berlin facing challenges in rebuilding post-flooding.

Community support crucial in helping Vermont residents cope with flood aftermath.

Long road ahead for Vermont residents in navigating recovery efforts and rebuilding.

Neveu's home is a priority for elevation, but the process is slow-moving. Similarly, residents in Barre and Berlin are facing challenges in rebuilding their homes and lives post-flooding. The emotional toll of the prolonged recovery process is evident, with families experiencing stress and strain in cramped living conditions.

Despite the hardships, there are signs of resilience and determination among affected residents. Families like Sara Morris' are working towards rebuilding their lives, finding new homes, and seeking closure after a year of upheaval. The community spirit and support have been crucial in helping individuals cope with the aftermath of the floods.

As Vermont continues to recover from the devastating floods, the road ahead remains uncertain for many residents. The challenges of navigating insurance claims, government assistance, and rebuilding efforts underscore the need for sustained support and resources to aid in the long-term recovery of affected communities.