Image Credit: Flooding on the Cambridge Turnpike in Concord, Massachusetts | U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Massachusetts cannot wait any longer
Communities across Massachusetts face escalating challenges from climate change: more frequent flooding, extreme heat, rising sea levels, and increasingly intense nor’easters. These threats endanger people, infrastructure, and the state’s economy. To meet these challenges, Massachusetts must prioritize sustained investment in long-term resilience.
Rebuild by Design’s new Atlas of Disaster: Massachusetts reveals that from 2011 to 2024:
- Massachusetts experienced 11 federally declared major disasters, costing taxpayers more than $541 million in federal assistance.
- Bristol and Suffolk Counties each experienced 8 disasters—the highest in the state—while Norfolk and Worcester experienced 7 disasters each, and Barnstable, Essex, Middlesex, and Plymouth counties each faced 6 disasters.
- The First Street Foundation estimates over 336,000 properties in Massachusetts are at risk of flooding—65% more than current flood maps indicate.
- By 2050, Massachusetts is expected to face 23–29 high heat days annually, with temperatures reaching or surpassing 90°F.
- Eight out of 14 Massachusetts counties are coastal, increasing the risk of property loss and rising insurance premiums.
Without bold investment in resilience, Massachusetts residents will continue paying a steep price. Delaying action increases the burden on taxpayers, diverts funds from essential services, and compounds economic strain on communities already grappling with disaster recovery.
FINDINGS
11 DISASTER DECLARATIONS
Between 2011 and 2024, Massachusetts faced 11 federally declared major disasters—7 of which were flood-related—underscoring the urgency of robust flood mitigation efforts.
$541 MILLION IN FEDERAL ASSISTANCE
These disasters have cost over $541 million in taxpayer dollars, highlighting the growing economic strain on local communities and the urgent need for sustainable recovery funding.
29 DAYS ABOVE 90°F
FIND YOUR LEGISLATIVE REPRESENTATIVES
ATLAS OF INSPIRATION: MASSACHUSETTS
The Atlas of Inspiration is a growing collection of climate infrastructure projects, planning strategies, and funding approaches that are already making an impact. From green infrastructure to affordable housing and resilient transportation, these projects show how communities across the country are addressing multiple hazards while improving daily life. Many of these ideas highlight how climate adaptation can inspire action, advance equity, and drive long-term systems to change.
TOGETHER, WE CAN FIX THIS
Massachusetts’ future depends on proactive planning and bold investments today. Rising sea levels, increased flooding, and more frequent extreme heat are already impacting lives, livelihoods, and our core industries—from coastal tourism to healthcare and education. With disasters becoming more common and costly, the time to act is now.
1. Champion Statewide Climate Resilience
Massachusetts must commit to a comprehensive, statewide adaptation strategy. Cross-sector collaboration—from infrastructure and transportation to public health and housing—is critical to protect both urban and rural communities from escalating climate threats.
2. Secure Sustainable Funding
Establish dedicated, long-term state funding for resilient infrastructure. Consider innovative solutions, such as green bonds, dedicated climate resilience funds, or regional partnerships, to generate the billions needed for flood protection, energy upgrades, and emergency preparedness.
3. Empower Local Leadership
Support community-driven adaptation projects, especially in the most vulnerable and historically underserved areas. The state should prioritize funding for local solutions that address aging infrastructure, reduce social vulnerability, and deliver equitable resilience for all residents.
Rebuild by Design is working to secure dedicated funding for resilient infrastructure, empowering all Massachusetts’ communities to invest in resilience today.
We are seeking organizations, community leaders, and dedicated advocates who can play an active role in advancing resilience efforts across the state. Your support is critical in securing the funding and policies that will protect Massachusetts’ communities and infrastructure for the future. Contact us >>
THE ATLAS SERIES
ATLAS OF DISASTER REPORT
Released in 2022, the Atlas of Disaster offers a county-by-county snapshot of climate-driven disasters across the U.S. from 2011–2021. The report highlights widespread impacts, gaps in federal policy, and the urgent need for pre-disaster investment in both physical and social infrastructure. Read the report >>
ATLAS OF ACCOUNTABILITY TOOL
The Atlas of Accountability maps federal disaster declarations and post-disaster assistance obligations for every county in the U.S., with overlays by congressional district between 2011-2024. Explore the map >>
CLIMATE INFRASTRUCTURE WE LOVE
Explore a growing collection of climate infrastructure projects, planning strategies, & funding approaches That are currently helping communities across the U.S. build resilience. Get inspired >>
SHARE YOUR STATE & STORY
Each week in 2025, we shared a key finding from the Atlas for all 50 states through downloadable graphics and captions. Explore your state’s climate risk data and help spread awareness by sharing it on social media. Download state >>