MONTPELIER, the state capital of Vermont, is in a state of emergency due to severe flooding caused by heavy rainfall.
The situation is described as catastrophic, with roadways impassable and residents stranded in their homes.
Governor Phil Scott has declared the flooding in Vermont as historic and catastrophic.
The downtown area of Montpelier is severely affected, with streets submerged and floodwaters reaching the windows of businesses and vehicles.
The Wrightsville Dam near the city is at maximum capacity, posing a threat of further flooding if it spills over.
Climate scientists link these extreme weather events to human-driven climate change.
Other regions in the United States are experiencing soaring temperatures, such as scorching heat in Florida and Texas and extreme desert temperatures in California.
Efforts to rescue stranded residents are underway, with search teams using swift boats to evacuate people from their homes and cars.
Highway closures have made evacuations challenging, leaving residents urged to seek safety on higher floors.
The flood brought a huge economic impact, with damages and losses estimated to range between $3 billion and $5 billion.
