South Florida is grappling with severe weather as meteorologists warn of continued heavy rain and flooding throughout the region. The Palm Beaches and the Treasure Coast are particularly vulnerable, with isolated to scattered rain expected to persist through Saturday. The National Weather Service confirmed an EF-1 tornado touched down on Wednesday near Bridge Road and U.S. 1 in Martin County, bringing peak winds between 85 to 95 mph.
Tropical downpours are forecast to bring significant rainfall, with some areas potentially receiving up to five inches by the week's end. The biggest threat remains flooding, with models predicting 5 to 10 inches of rainfall from the Treasure Coast down to Palm Beach County. "Life-threatening flooding is now ongoing," warned the Miami weather service office on social media. "Please stay off the roadways and get to higher ground."
The impact of the severe weather has already been felt. A rare flash flood emergency was declared, causing widespread disruption. Roads were flooded and impassable, vehicles floated away, and travel plans were severely affected. The Florida Panthers' journey to Canada for Stanley Cup games was delayed due to the weather.
The storm system, although disorganized and not yet reaching cyclone status, continues to push across Florida from the Gulf of Mexico. The National Hurricane Center indicated only a slight chance of the system developing into a tropical cyclone once it moves into the Atlantic Ocean. "Regardless of development, heavy rainfall is forecast to continue across portions of the Florida peninsula during the next few days," the hurricane center stated on Wednesday.
Numerous roads in the affected areas are underwater. In Broward County, southbound traffic on Interstate 95 was diverted around a flooded section, and contractors were dispatched to pump the drainage system. The interstate will remain closed until the water is sufficiently drained, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
In response to the severe weather, mayors in Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood declared states of emergency for their cities. Later on Wednesday, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis expanded the state of emergency to include Broward, Miami-Dade, Collier, Lee, and Sarasota counties. Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava also issued a local state of emergency.
Residents have been significantly affected by the flooding. Mike Viesel, a resident of Hollywood, recounted his experience to the Miami Herald. While driving home with his dog Humi, Viesel was caught in deep floodwater on a low-lying street. As he slowed down, other cars passed him, pushing more water into his vehicle and causing the engine to stall. "I'd walk out of my car," Viesel said, but his dog "has a problem with water."
The forecast remains grim as South Florida continues to deal with the fallout from the tornado and the ongoing heavy rains. The National Weather Service has warned of isolated strong storms and rounds of heavy tropical moisture through the weekend. As a result, local authorities and residents are on high alert, bracing for further flooding and its potential impacts.
The tropical disturbance coincides with the early June start of hurricane season, which is predicted to be one of the most active in recent memory. Concerns about climate change and its role in increasing storm intensity add to the urgency of the situation. As the region prepares for more heavy rainfall, the resilience of South Florida's infrastructure and emergency response systems will be put to the test.
Emergency services and local authorities are working tirelessly to mitigate the effects of the severe weather. Efforts include pumping water from flooded roads, issuing safety warnings, and providing support to affected residents. The community is urged to remain vigilant and adhere to safety advisories to minimize risk and ensure their safety.
