James M. Jeffords: “3 days ago, the heavens opened over northern Vermont. Torrential rains sent floodwaters ripping through communities and…”

“3 days ago, the heavens opened over northern Vermont. Torrential rains sent floodwaters ripping through communities and over farmland, tearing bridges from their foundations, shredding roads and stranding hundreds of people. The floods that swept through sections of northern Vermont were the worst in over 70 years. Up to 6 inches of rain fell overnight. Flash floods turned quiet rivers and streams into raging waterways in the early morning darkness, disrupting the peaceful existence of thousands of Vermonters. Yesterday, I spoke with several town officials and residents who were hit the hardest. They gave me firsthand accounts of the damage to their communities. In some towns, bridges were swept away, roads were washed out, pavements were ripped up, cars and trucks were overturned, perhaps were destroyed, trees were uprooted, homes were lifted from their foundations and filled with water. Monday night's torrential rains were followed by a day of heroism-- neighbors, rescue workers, families and friends came together in Vermont's close communities.”