Rapid river rise has Bennington on edge

Heavy rains have turned the Walloomsac River in Bennington into a rushing wall of muddy water.

The river floods at seven feet, according to the NewsChannel 13 First Warning Weather Team, and it was just sitting below that on Monday.

There is major flooding in communities to the east and north of there. There are concerns there could be flooding in Bennington when that water drains.

Bennington Police Chief Paul Doucette compared the situation to Tropical Storm Irene in 2011, which caused major flooding in the area.

“We do have people on standby – people that work for us at the police department. The fire departments are essential in the event we have to do rescues, and the North Bennington Fire Department does have a water rescue team, and they are prepared, as well,” Doucette said.

Vermont Gov. Phil Scott has declared a state of emergency. That allows the state to get help from other states, as they determine the extent of the damage.

Meanwhile, the police chief said if you are close to water, don’t try to drive in it. That can be very dangerous.