Heavy rainfall and rapid snowmelt triggered significant flooding along the Connecticut River and its tributaries this week, prompting emergency declarations in several western New Hampshire communities and mobilizing state and local response teams.
The flooding, which began Tuesday after two days of heavy rain fell on a substantial snowpack, was most severe in the towns of Cornish, Charlestown, and Walpole, where water levels on the Connecticut River exceeded flood stage by more than four feet at several gauging stations.
Governor Chris Sununu declared a state of emergency Wednesday, activating the National Guard and directing state resources to affected communities. “Our first priority is the safety of every resident in the flood zone,” Sununu said. “We’re asking people in low-lying areas to follow evacuation guidance and not attempt to drive through flooded roads.”
In Charlestown, rising water from the Connecticut River inundated portions of Main Street and forced the evacuation of approximately 50 residents from homes along the riverbank. The town’s emergency shelter at the community center was activated and staffed by Red Cross volunteers.
The Sugar River in Claremont also rose rapidly, flooding several businesses along lower Main Street. Fire Chief Bryan Burr said crews conducted six water rescues over a 24-hour period, including pulling two motorists from vehicles that had become trapped on flooded roadways.
“We say it every time, and we’ll keep saying it: do not drive through standing water,” Burr said. “It only takes a few inches of flowing water to sweep a car off the road.”
The New Hampshire Department of Transportation reported road closures on Route 12, Route 12A, and several local roads in the affected area. Crews were working to clear debris and assess damage to bridges and culverts.
As river levels began to recede Thursday, attention turned to damage assessment and recovery. The governor’s office said state officials would be working with FEMA to evaluate whether federal disaster assistance may be available for affected homeowners and communities.
