Montpelier, Vt. – Governor Phil Scott and Vermont Emergency Management today provided an update on the ongoing response to the winter storm that impacted the state over Christmas weekend.
“We’ve made lot of progress over the last few days, and utility crews are working tirelessly to get the last households restored as soon as possible. The utilities report this final phase of restoration is in mostly isolated wooded areas, where lines are difficult to get to and repair. Utility companies are working together to get this work done safely and quickly,” said Governor Scott.
“I want to express my sincere appreciation to those who’ve worked so hard over the holiday, from utility line crews in difficult conditions, to VTrans drivers keeping roads safe, as well as first responders, local emergency management officials and the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) team. Vermonters really stepped up, as usual, to help their neighbors. It’s one of the things that makes Vermont such a special place. And we’re going to stay focused on this until the job is done,” Governor Scott continued.
STORM RESPONSE AT A GLANCE
Over 75,000 power outages were reported across the state. As of 2:00 p.m. today, crews are working hard to restore power to the remining 1,389 customers without electricity.
Throughout the weekend, there were 20 shelters and warming centers open, including three run or supported by the American Red Cross and seven supported by the Vermont National Guard.
Agency of Transportation crews worked diligently to treat roads in difficult conditions, including 66,920 lane miles plowed, applying 5,538 gallons of magnesium chloride, 74,128 gallons of sodium chloride and 6,118 tons of winter salt.
Over the activation period beginning Friday at 8:00 a.m., the SEOC also responded to 86 calls from local emergency management officials and power outages and other storm-related needs at essential infrastructure including healthcare facilities and correctional institutions.
The Vermont State Police responded to 73 storm-related incidents.
The State Emergency Operation Center (SEOC) included representatives from the Agency of Human Services, Agency of Transportation, Agency of Digital Services Public Service Department, Department of Health, Vermont State Police, Division of Fire Safety, Urban Search and Rescue, Department of Environmental Conservation, Department Forest Parks & Recreation, Vermont National Guard, American Red Cross, Vermont 211, Green Mountain Power, Washington Electric Co-Op, Vermont Electric Co-Op, and more.
Vermonters can stay up to date on emergency responses at https://vem.vermont.gov/.