Local
King tides push water into Hollywood streets as coastal flood risk rises
Floodwater reached knee level in parts of Hollywood, covering streets and entering businesses as South Florida braces for another round of unusually high tides. Forecasters warn coastal flooding could worsen from Monday through Tuesday, alongside dangerous surf and rip currents.
Water covered streets in Hollywood and seeped into nearby businesses early Sunday as South Florida communities prepared for another round of king tides and a growing risk of coastal flooding.
Video captured flooding on Franklin Street and Ocean Drive. One resident described the water as roughly knee-deep and said they had just finished clearing water from an office. Residents and crews had spent recent weeks placing sandbags and temporary barriers known as tiger dams, but preparations may not prevent damage.
The National Weather Service in Miami said moderate coastal flooding was expected during high tides through Sunday night, with the chance of major coastal flooding increasing from Monday morning through Tuesday. The evening’s peak tide was forecast for about 9 p.m.
Florida’s Division of Emergency Management warned Sunday of strong, gusty winds, hazardous surf with waves reaching 10 to 15 feet, a high risk of rip currents and moderate to major coastal flooding along the state’s east coast. The agency urged people to stay away from beaches and coastal areas, particularly during high tide.
City leaders urged residents to move cars to higher ground and protect property. Flooded streets can also disrupt travel: residents said drivers slowed down or turned around rather than risk driving through water, which can damage vehicles. One resident said salt water made the route along Surf Road particularly concerning and added that getting around the flooded area took a long time.