After experiencing severe flooding in 2023, Carrie and Graeme Noseworthy committed to a comprehensive home defense strategy for their Leominster, Massachusetts, residence to alleviate their anxiety during storms. They invested approximately $51,000 in repairs and upgrades, with only $25,000 provided through the Federal Disaster Assistance Program, which they found insufficient for future-proofing their home against climate change-induced flash floods.
The family sought to go beyond mere repairs, upgrading their home’s infrastructure to withstand future storms as the frequency of such events increases in New England. Graeme highlighted the importance of rethinking their home’s defenses, including the installation of waterproof materials and two heavy-duty pumps capable of removing large amounts of water. They also acquired power sources to keep their systems functioning during outages, alongside modern water sensors and a home weather station for monitoring conditions.
Despite initial challenges, including lack of insurance coverage and a denied emergency declaration, their perseverance paid off when federal funding was finally approved in May 2024. The Noseworthys expressed both relief and a sense of resilience, culminating in an open house celebrating their restored home, particularly the upgraded bathroom. Graeme reflected on the journey of recovery, noting the bathroom’s transformation as symbolic of their resilience against future climate threats.
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