SAM Magazine—July 13, 2023—Water has started to recede in Vermont after torrential rains and historic flooding in some mountain locations, with Killington, Magic Mountain, and Okemo among the most heavily impacted.Parking Lot of Magic Mountain. Courtesy of Magic Mountain

Molly Mahar, president of Ski Vermont, said those ski areas are reporting erosion of access roads and water bars, flooding of buildings, lodges, base area roads, and parking lots, and heavy silt and mud accumulation. Lifts were still being assessed, though no damage to any has been reported so far.

“The widespread damage to so many communities around the state is staggering,” said Mahar.

To help, Ski Vermont has set up a resource page on its website with information on how people can assist those impacted by the storms. The state has also set up a flood response page.

Despite damage and reduced accessibility caused by flooding, summer operations at some resorts have resumed, including at Killington, where mountain biking and other activities are up and running.

To the south, Magic Mountain reported it too was on the rebound in the days following the storms. “Thankfully Day [two] offered a sunny respite to begin clean-up here and in town!” said the resort on social media. “Coming back.” 

Earlier in the week, Magic Mountain president Geoff Hatheway said mountain and condo access roads were washed out, with homes and businesses in south Londonderry inaccessible, and flooding at the ski area’s base.

Digging out Red Chair base and valve house there which had mud to the top of the door. #floodrecovery pic.twitter.com/EtgJfj4jug

— Magic Mountain (@SkiMagicVT) July 13, 2023

In Ludlow, staff at Okemo have been pitching in to help their community recover. 

“We're grateful to our team at Jackson Gore Inn who have been working to support emergency workers and displaced neighbors in the area,” resort officials posted on Instagram. “Thank you to all who have been working tirelessly to mitigate damage and provide support to Okemo and the town of Ludlow.” 

7.10.23. | Through it all, we stand tall. Mountain Road is closed indefinitely as we begin to evaluate damage. Okemo Ridge Road is open to owners and staff only at this time. More info to come. Stay safe and take care of one another. pic.twitter.com/6pnAsgniJ4

— Okemo Conditions (@OkemoConditions) July 11, 2023

Mahar said Jay Peak, Mad River Glen, Mount Snow, and Stratton all report no or minimal damage.

“It could have been much worse,” she added, “but there’s still a lot of damage at the most impacted areas and communities.”

Severe storms are predicted to hit Vermont again today from 4 to 8 p.m., some affecting already hard-hit areas. “This isn’t over yet, and it won’t be over after this storm,” said Vermont Governor Phil Scott, who submitted a major disaster declaration to President Biden today that would provide disaster relief funds to the state.

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