A lot of people think floods only happen in the summertime. But in many areas of the country, winter brings a large portion of annual rainfall, and with it, an increased chance of flooding. Winter flooding causes millions of dollars of damage each year, so it's important to think about getting insurance protection from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Several areas of the country are at a heightened risk for winter flooding. During the winter of 2007-2008, for example, wetter-than-normal conditions from La Niña caused significant flooding in the Pacific Northwest, other parts of the West, and throughout the Ohio and Tennessee Valleys. Excessive rain and mid-winter thaws affect almost all regions. Winds generated from winter storms can also cause tidal flooding and severe beach erosion along coastal areas. Areas of California have been at an increased flood risk due to recent wildfires. The charred and denuded ground in burn areas cannot absorb water easily, making properties near burn areas especially vulnerable to flooding and mudflows.

Northwest Flooding
Western states are at a high risk for flooding due to La Niña conditions, snow melt, heavy rains and recent wildfires. Weather has been wetter than normal in northern California, Idaho, western Montana, northern Nevada, Oregon and Washington.

Northeast Flooding
Eastern states can be hit by coastal storms called Nor’easters. Coastal areas are hit by heavy rains and heavy, pounding waves. A December 1992 Nor’easter caused $346 million in flood-related damages.

Protect Yourself
There’s a 30-day wait before a flood insurance policy takes effect, so don’t wait to purchase flood insurance.

Besides insuring your property, there are things you can do before, during and after winter flooding season to minimize potential loss to your home, and to keep your family safe.