Gov. Phil Scott issued a warning to Vermont residents on Thursday, with flash flooding, hail and possible tornadoes in the forecast even as the state continues to emerge from historic severe flooding earlier in the week.
"Unfortunately, in parts of the state we're now expecting severe thunderstorms, which could bring more flash flooding, hail and even the threat of a tornado," he said. "Those are expected to come late this afternoon into the evening hours."
The worst of the weather is expected between 4-8 p.m., Scott said. A severe thunderstorm watch has already been issued for the entire state.
"Vermonters need to pay attention to weather reporting today and plan ahead," the governor said. "If you need to do something today, do it early. Don't wait. Flash flooding can happen quickly and you don't know when it may hit."
Scott said crews spent much of the day Wednesday gearing up for this new round of severe weather.
The bad news is, Thursday's weather isn't the end of it. More flash flooding is possible on Sunday.
"This isn't over and it won't be over after this storm," Scott said. "On Sunday, unfortunately, there's another chance for heavy rain statewide. I know this is hard news for many, and folks will want to think this is over as soon as the weather breaks on Saturday, but it's critical that Vermonters understand tht we need to remain vigilant and prepared."
The governor then sounded a more positive note. "I assure you, though, we'll get through this and be stronger for it. We need to prepare and be ready," he said. "Then we can move full time to the recovery stage."
Scott also warned people not to swim in flood waters, citing recent social media posts showing kids doing just that.
"Be smart and use common sense," he said. "That means do not go in the water... This is not typical rainwater. It's filled with chemicals, soil, waste and more. It's simply not safe."
"They are foul and nasty," added Department of Public Safety Commissioner Jennifer Morrison. "Do not let your kids play in storm water. It's not healty."
Scott also said Thursday that he has submitted a request to President Joe Biden for a major disaster declaration, which if approved will provide federal disaster relief funds. This is separate from the federal emergency declaration signed by Biden earlier in the week to help with the emergency phase.
He didn't want to guess at the potential total cost of the flood damage, saying there is still so much damage state officials haven't seen yet. "It's significant," he said.
Morrison said over 100 people are still staying at six shelters across the state, though others could also be staying at shelters set up by local cities and towns.
She said so far, there have not been any reported fatalities associated with this week's storm and there are no active rescue missions at this time. Her agency is now working on getting swiftwater and urban rescue teams in position ahead of the next round of storms.
The Waterbury, Wrightsville and Eastville dams are still being monitored closely, but so far they have withstood the storms.
"The likelihood of localized flash flooding is high," Morrison said. "Not a repeat of Monday and Tuesday, but it will be dangerous in areas that do experience flash flooding."
New Hampshire officials are also busy preparing for possible flooding on Thursday. Gov. Chris Sununu issued a statement urging residents to prepare now before the rain starts falling.
“With more rain in the forecast and the possibility of additional flooding, the safety of residents and visitors is of utmost importance,” Sununu said. “Plan ahead, be prepared, monitor local weather forecasts, and be on alert for changing conditions.”
Residents and visitors -- especially those camping at sites along rivers and streams or in low-lying areas -- should make sure they know what to do if they need to evacuate, state officials warned.
