NEWPORT — Heavy rains have led to significant flooding across Orleans and Essex counties, resulting in numerous road closures and extensive damage. Emergency responders and public works crews are working tirelessly to manage the situation and ensure public safety.
In Albany, several roads are completely closed, including Daniel’s Road, Wells Road, and Lafont Road. The Creek Road has suffered severe erosion, particularly on the paved section, making travel dangerous.
Barton is experiencing numerous closures as well. Route 5 near Circle K remains closed, and the bottom of Lincoln Avenue is also impassable, with no reopening expected today. While Glover Street and the intersection of Roaring Brook Road are closed, the intersection of Glover Street and Roaring Brook is now open to the interstate.
May Farm Road is severely damaged, reduced to one lane for a stretch of about 100 feet. Residents are advised to avoid it if possible. Other closed roads include Kittredge Road, Telfer Hill Road, Hollow Road, and East Albany Road at the Beaver Bog.
In Brownington, VT-58 is closed 1.5 miles east of Orleans at Brownington Center Road due to an 8-foot deep washout, posing a significant hazard.
Greensboro is dealing with high water and road closures on VT-16 in East Hardwick, just north of D&L Beverage at Belfry Road. Orton Road and the junction with Stannard Mountain Road are also closed due to road erosion.
Charleston has seen partial reopening on VT-105, now open to one lane from Center School Road to Twin Bridges Road. However, the section from Center School Road to Twin Bridges Road remains closed due to washouts and potential bridge damage.
Craftsbury reports a closure on Route 14 from Craftsbury to Hardwick at the beginning of Eligo, while in Derby, Hinman-Settler Road is washed out where Cobb Brook crosses.
In Orleans, RT 5 between Barton and Orleans is closed, as is Hollow Road due to washout issues.
Essex County is also heavily impacted. Brighton has a washout at the intersection of VT Rt 114 and River Lane, reducing it to one lane with fast-moving water posing additional risks. VT-114 in Norton is closed approximately one mile south of the village due to high water and washouts.
Additionally, VT-15 is closed from Morrisville through Wolcott to Hardwick due to multiple washouts, further complicating travel in the region.
The emergency shelter in the downstairs of the Memorial Building in Newport is open to assist displaced residents. Vermont Electric Company has announced a planned power shutoff to parts of Newport at 10 a.m. to remove trees from power lines, expected to last until around noon, which will also affect phone services.
Residents are urged to exercise caution, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay informed through local updates as efforts to repair and reopen roads continue.
