Montpelier residents brace for flooding as river levels rise

MONTPELIER — City officials issued a flood update at 3:30 p.m. today as the Winooski River’s water level inched closer to the flood stage, prompting actions to protect residents and property in this state capital.

City department leaders spent the afternoon canvassing downtown Montpelier, warning those in flood-prone areas of the rising waters.

Some businesses already report basement flooding, and Lower State Street is now closed between Green Mount Cemetery and Bailey Ave due to water on the roadway.

Residents can check for road closures and hazards at the New England 511 website and are advised to stay informed about the changing conditions.

The Department of Public Works is distributing sandbags from the Volunteer Hub in front of City Hall.

Those in need of sandbags can request them online at the city’s hub website.

To assist those who may be displaced, the Red Cross has opened an emergency shelter at the Barre Auditorium, where pets are also welcome.

As of 2:45 p.m., the Winooski River was recorded at 13.96 feet.

A river level of 15 feet could lead to flooding on State Street near the Bailey Avenue bridge and potentially along Route 302 between Montpelier and Barre, affecting local roads and farmland.

The state office complex in Waterbury may also be at risk.