Experts in environmental science and climate planning gave us a clear picture of the extreme weather we can expect in Middleborough in the years to come, along with the science behind it.
Here are our notes from our October 26 “Preparing for Extreme Weather” workshop:
WHAT TO EXPECT IN MIDDLEBOROUGH:
- More torrential rain, spaced out in bursts, with flash flooding
- Periods of drought: as of October 10, despite 7 inches of rain in one weekend, our southeastern region was still at Level 1 drought
- Hurricanes with more intense wind and rain and higher storm surges
- Poor air quality due to larger and more frequent wildfires; a longer fire season
- Milder temperatures and more precipitation this coming winter, due to the Super El Nino (which is also linked to a calmer 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, stronger in Pacific)
- Increase in tick- and mosquito-borne diseases
- More 90+ days in summer; extreme heat is one of the most deadly weather events
HOW WE CAN PREPARE AS A COMMUNITY:
- Use more off-grid renewable energy and battery storage
- Weatherization and energy-efficiency in buildings and appliances
- Reduce transportation emissions with more public transit, electric vehicles, micro transit (bikes, scooters)
- Green infrastructure projects, for example, more use of trees and plants, less concrete, to absorb stormwater
- Identify shelter for extreme weather, check on neighbors: In Middleborough, watch for notices from the fire chief for emergency shelter. The library and Council on Aging are regularly used as cooling/heating centers; schools may be used for evacuations.
- Conservation of our ecosystem, which serves as a carbon sink and can absorb floodwater
- Better preparation, regulation, and building codes for flooding and stormwater
- Together, follow local planning, zoning, permitting issues; vote; show up at meetings; join groups like Sustainable Middleborough.
HOW WE CAN PREPARE AS INDIVIDUALS:
- Prepare an emergency kit in waterproof easy-to-carry containers, including items such as enough water and nonperishable food for 72 hours, batteries/power banks, battery radio, first aid, flashlight/lantern/headlamp, manual can opener, wrench, copies of important documents. See this Ready Emergency Supply List.
- Prepare a similar kit for your car, including space blankets, jumper cables, water bottles, snacks, first aid.
- Learn and practice plans for evacuation and shelter. Set a meeting spot for your family.
- Sign up for emergency alerts on your phone. Go to Settings, Notifications, and scroll down and make sure Government Alerts (Emergency and Public Safety) are turned on. You can also sign up for National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) email alerts here.
- For both winter storms and extreme heat, insulate and air seal your home. Contact our Weatherization Navigator for help, navigator@sustainablemiddleborough.org, 774-419-5250.
- Consider installing a sump pump and/or generator.
- During hurricane season, consider installing hurricane shutters or reinforcing windows. Declutter drains and gutters. Secure outdoor items.
- For wildfires, set up an outdoor water source with a hose that reaches all parts of your property; use fire-resistant building materials when you renovate or repair; keep leaves, brush, and flammable debris at least 30 feet from your home.
- Practice climate-resilient landscaping. See our workshop video and materials.
HELPFUL RESOURCES:
Here are links to the handouts at the workshop, which can help you prepare now, how to be safe during extreme weather, and what to do afterward.
BE PREPARED FOR A WINTER STORM
Be Prepared for Any Hazard (includes more hazards, eg earthquake, nuclear attack, active shooter, cyberattack)
Resilient Massachusetts, with preparedness tools for our state
A link to the video of the workshop.
A link to the workshop slides.
Thank you to Dr. Kristin Burkholder and Makenna Dube of Stonehill College and Audrey Mathews of Southeast Regional Planning and Economic Development District!
