Introduction to Rainy Season in South Florida
The National Weather Service is calling for isolated severe thunderstorms late Monday across South Florida, including coastal areas, and has issued a severe thunderstorm watch from Orlando south to Key Largo.
Forecasters warned that wind gusts up to 70 mph and scattered hail over 1 inch in diameter are possible. Tornado activity could not be ruled out.
Expected Weather Conditions
Thunderstorms could pop up and last until about 10 p.m., they said, and warned of damaging wind. Large hail is also possible because of a layer of cold air aloft, said Chuck Caracozza, meteorologist for the National Weather Service Miami office. A hail storm was reported in Wellington about 2:30 Monday afternoon.
Flooding is also possible.
Daily Weather Forecast
Monday will be the second day in a row of intense downpours, and Tuesday could see much of the same, with a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Midweek should be dry. And then Friday and Saturday will have a 30% chance of thunderstorms. Sunday bumps up to 50%.
Rainy Season Patterns
The rainy season officially starts May 15. Caracozza said that though there are no guarantees, it looks like rainy season patterns are starting to align. “We’re starting to see more of these rain chances this weekend and into early next week. We are starting to see that transition.”
The forces at play include more sea breezes and enough moisture in place to support daily showers, said Caracozza.
Drought Conditions in South Florida
The drought affecting South Florida has been ongoing for months. Drought.gov currently lists most of Broward and Palm Beach counties as experiencing “extreme drought,” meaning fire danger is extreme; saltwater species replace freshwater species; groundwater declines; salt water intrudes; and toxic algae blooms and fish kills can occur.
Original Publication Date
Originally Published: May 5, 2025 at 2:49 PM EDT
Conclusion
In conclusion, South Florida is expected to experience hints of the rainy season this week and weekend, with isolated severe thunderstorms and a chance of flooding. The rainy season patterns are starting to align, and the drought conditions in the area are expected to improve.
FAQs
Q: When does the rainy season officially start in South Florida?
A: The rainy season officially starts on May 15.
Q: What are the expected weather conditions for the week?
A: The week is expected to have isolated severe thunderstorms, with a chance of flooding and damaging wind.
Q: What is the current drought condition in South Florida?
A: The current drought condition in South Florida is extreme, with fire danger, saltwater intrusion, and toxic algae blooms being major concerns.
Q: Will the rainy season improve the drought conditions?
A: Yes, the rainy season is expected to improve the drought conditions in South Florida.
