Winter Storm tops the risk list, and FEMA has declared Vermont a disaster area 62 times since 1953. Here's what to prepare for — and how.
Vermont's disaster profile is shaped by its rugged Green Mountains, dense river networks, and position in the northeastern corner of the country, where Atlantic storm systems and Arctic air masses converge with little warning. Winter storms rank as the highest ongoing threat, burying communities under heavy snow and ice each season and straining mountain roads that are already vulnerable. Flooding is a persistent medium-level hazard, amplified by narrow river valleys that channel runoff rapidly after rain or snowmelt. Tropical systems, though rated low risk, have delivered some of Vermont's most destructive moments. Tropical Storm Irene in 2011 caused catastrophic flooding that destroyed roads, bridges, and homes across the state, isolating more than a dozen communities and becoming one of Vermont's costliest natural disasters on record. Decades earlier, the Great Flood of 1927 killed dozens of Vermonters and wiped out hundreds of bridges, demonstrating how quickly the state's rivers can turn deadly. More recently, severe storms and flooding in 2024 prompted another major federal disaster declaration — Vermont's 55th — underscoring that this is not a historical problem but an ongoing one. For residents, that history carries a clear message: preparation must center on flood resilience and winter-weather readiness year-round. Knowing your evacuation routes before roads wash out, keeping emergency supplies stocked before a nor'easter arrives, and signing up for local alerts are practical steps grounded in what Vermont's past consistently demands.
Extended winter storms knock out power for days — prepare to survive without heat.
Flooding is the most common US disaster — just 6 inches of moving water can knock a person down.
Hurricanes bring storm surge, wind damage, and flooding that can cut off evacuation routes.
This remote, heavily forested region faces the state's most severe winter storms, with deep snowfall and prolonged ice events that can cut off rural communities for extended periods.
High-elevation terrain accelerates snowpack accumulation and spring runoff, making mountain communities especially vulnerable to both avalanche-adjacent snow events and downstream flooding.
The Connecticut River corridor is highly susceptible to flooding from prolonged rain and snowmelt, as demonstrated during Tropical Storm Irene in 2011 when riverside towns sustained severe structural damage.
Lake Champlain's shoreline communities face lake-effect snow enhancement in winter and periodic lakeshore flooding during high-water years driven by heavy precipitation.
Positioned closest to the path of Atlantic hurricanes and tropical remnants, southern Vermont absorbs the heaviest rainfall from systems like Irene and faces significant river flooding risk.
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The state's official emergency management agency — alerts, shelter info, and disaster assistance.
Vermont residents can sign up for VT-ALERT, the state's official emergency notification system, at vem.vermont.gov to receive warnings by phone call, text message, or email during declared emergencies and severe weather events.
What natural disasters is Vermont most at risk for?
Vermont faces the highest risk from winter storms, which bring heavy snow and ice that regularly disrupt travel and services. Flooding is a medium-level but historically devastating threat, particularly in river valleys. Tropical storm remnants occasionally cause catastrophic flooding, as Tropical Storm Irene demonstrated in 2011.
How do I receive emergency alerts in Vermont?
Vermonters should register for VT-ALERT, the state's official emergency notification system managed by Vermont Emergency Management, which delivers warnings by phone, text, and email. Wireless Emergency Alerts are also broadcast automatically to cell phones in affected areas during imminent threats.
How many federal disaster declarations has Vermont received?
Vermont has received 55 major federal disaster declarations (DR-level), with severe storms and flooding accounting for the majority. The most recent major declaration was issued in 2024 for severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides, reflecting the state's continuing vulnerability to weather-driven disasters.
What should Vermonters include in a basic emergency kit?
Given Vermont's winter storm and flood risks, a kit should include at least 72 hours of water and non-perishable food, a battery or hand-crank weather radio, flashlights, warm clothing and blankets, medications, important documents in waterproof storage, and basic tools in case roads become impassable.
Knowing your risks is step one. Two minutes with the readiness quiz tells you exactly where your preparation stands — and the free guide walks you through closing the gaps.