For all those kind customers and friends who have sent their best wishes to Vermont Woods Studios and our network of Vermont woodworkers, here's a quick update on Vermont's status after Hurricane Irene.

• This storm will most likely prove to be one of the 10 costliest catastrophes in the nation’s history
• Analysts said that much of the damage might not be covered by insurance because it was caused not by winds but by flooding, which is excluded from many standard policies
• 3 people in Vermont have died and a fouth is still missing
• All rail traffic has been stopped
• Nearly 300 roads and 30 bridges are closed
• The state office complex in Waterbury is shut down
• A dozen villages are cut off by bridge and road wash-outs, with no way in or out
• The National Guard is airlifting food, water and supplies to them
• Nearly 20,000 Vermonters are still without power
• These photos give an idea of the damage and destruction in VT

Skiers – sorry to report that this is a base lodge at Killington.

Also, if you love horses you have to see this video. It's a horse and rider braving the floods and stormy weather to deliver medicine to a stranded Vermonter.  And speaking of horses, here's a tip for Vermont horse owners:  New England's only non-profit donkey, horse and mule rescue may be able to help you with boarding displaced animals.  It's called Save Your Ass, of course (really- you can't make this stuff up).  Give them a call at 603-835-2971.  Ask for Ann.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those who are suffering through this disaster. Vermonters need help.  The Brattleboro Reformer had a great article today on ways to help.  Yesterday I posted links to the American Red Cross of VT  and other organizations that are helping Vermonters.  Your encouragement and support is greatly appreciated!

The post Vermont Update – Hurricane Irene appeared first on Vermont Woods Studios.