Local
South Florida faces Sunday flood risk as king tides and storms converge
Heavy rain, gusty winds and higher-than-normal king tides could bring flooding to South Florida from Sunday into early next week. Forecasters warn of a slight flash-flood risk and possible moderate to major coastal flooding.
South Florida could see flooding from Sunday, Oct. 25, into early next week as heavy rain, strong winds and king tides arrive together, according to the forecast issued Wednesday, Oct. 21.
The Weather Prediction Center placed most of the region under a Level 2 risk for excessive rainfall on Sunday, with a slight risk of flash flooding. Rain is expected to increase from scattered showers Friday to heavier and more widespread conditions Saturday and Sunday.
Higher-than-normal tides are expected to peak late in the weekend and early next week. Minor seawater flooding was possible in low-lying coastal areas starting Wednesday, while moderate to major coastal flooding could develop as the tides coincide with the unsettled weather.
Wind gusts could reach 30 to 40 mph or stronger Sunday into Monday. The combination of wind, rain and coastal water could make for hazardous conditions across Miami-Dade and Broward counties.
The forecast called for a mostly sunny, breezy Wednesday with highs in the low 80s, followed by a mostly dry Thursday and scattered showers Friday. A high risk of rip currents was in effect for Atlantic beaches Wednesday, and a small craft advisory remained in place because of choppy bay conditions.