The risk of flooding in the state of Massachusetts has seen an increase over the past 10 years. This is believed to be due to a rise in the water table and increase in soil moisture that has resulted from rising temperatures in recent years and unusual timing of rain and snowfall in the New England region.

There are other constantly changing variables that can affect the flood risk for the state. Those are streamflow, water levels in lakes and the timing of peak high and low flows.

Studies have shown increases in precipitation, ground water levels and streamflow over the last 10 years. These could all affect future flooding and increase such risk.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, floods are one of the most commonly occurring hazards or natural disasters in the United States. Flooding can happen slowly over a period of time or it can occur quickly and without warning as in a flash flood event. If a dam breaks or a levee is breached, surrounding residents may have little warning and time to evacuate.

Currently, according to the National Weather Service, as of early July 2011, the state of Massachusetts is at normal water levels with no flood risk.