BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Rainy weather moving into our region is prompting reminders about flood safety.

The state Department of Ecology says that October is Flood Awareness Month.

As seasonal weather patterns cool things down across Washington, the risk of flooding and related damage goes up.

Areas that have dealt with prolonged drought or wildfire activity are at the highest risk for flooding and landslides.

However, no part of the state is immune from floodwaters.

Whatcom County most recently dealt with the Nooksack River overflowing its banks during an atmospheric river in November 2021.

Residents who live in higher-risk areas, such as near bodies of water or in lower elevations, are often required to purchase flood insurance for their property.

Ecology estimates that larger floods will occur in the future due to climate change.