Vermont · Preparedness Guide
Catastrophic floods that cut off entire towns, blizzards that close mountain passes, ice storms that leave communities without power for weeks, and one of the most rural states in the country.
About this guide
Vermont is the second least populous state, but it punches above its weight in disaster severity. Tropical Storm Irene (2011) was the worst natural disaster in Vermont history — 6 people died, 500+ miles of road were destroyed, and entire towns like Graniteville and Hancock were completely cut off. The July 2023 floods caused catastrophic damage to Montpelier and Barre — the capital flooded to its first-floor windows. Vermont's Green Mountains channel and intensify rainfall into narrow river valleys that can flash flood with terrifying speed. Winter brings blizzards that close Route 2 and I-89, ice storms that down trees across the landscape, and extreme cold that isolates remote hill farms for days. Preparation in Vermont is not optional — it is how you survive the geography.
Local self-reliance starts with knowing your place.
Quick facts
Top hazards: Flooding, Blizzards & Nor'easters, Ice Storms
VT has expanded Medicaid — adults up to 138% FPL may qualify
USDA hardiness zones: 3b (Northeast Kingdom / Derby) to 6a (Bennington / southern VT valleys)
Unemployment: up to $705/week for 26 weeks
Free or low-cost soil testing available through the state extension service
Seven topics, one state
Each section focuses on one question. Find what you need without wading through what you don't.
Official maps and tools for flood, fire, earthquake, water, dam, river, and local hazard awareness.
Am I at risk? →
Find nearby courses, extension programs, and emergency training that build practical skills.
Where do I learn? →
Connect with local gatherings, neighbor-help efforts, civic groups, and community support networks.
What's happening near me? →
Find official alerts, emergency agencies, trauma centers, and crisis-response information near you.
Who do I call? →
Use local frost dates, planting zones, soil data, extension calendars, and composting guidance.
What can I grow? →
Find food, utility, health, unemployment, and 211 resources before hardship becomes crisis.
Where can I find help? →
Find your county transit provider, demand-response ride service, and carpool matching options.
How do I get around? →
Simple step-by-step preparedness checklists for your home, family, garden, documents, and local risks.
What do I do next? →
Get specific
Enter your ZIP code to see real-time weather alerts, drought conditions, FEMA disaster declarations, and county-level resources.
Next steps
Know your risks
Flood zones, hazard maps, and the VT risks that apply to your county.
Local Risk ReadinessBuild the basics
The universal first step — before you personalize, get the 72-hour foundation in place.
First 72 Hours