Vermont's Capital Underwater: Historic Flooding and Dam Threat

The Vermont state capital, Montpelier, is submerged in floodwaters after "catastrophic" flooding caused road closures and trapped residents in their homes. The Wrightsville Dam, near Montpelier, is at maximum capacity, and if it releases water into the North Branch of the Winooski River, it will worsen the flooding. Climate scientists attribute the increasing frequency and intensity of severe weather events to human-driven climate change. Search teams have rescued 117 people, and officials estimate damages and economic losses to be between $3 billion and $5 billion. Evacuations are difficult due to highway closures, and residents are urged to be prepared to move to higher floors.