Flood Watch in Effect for South Florida
A flood watch has been issued for all of South Florida through Tuesday, with forecasters predicting 3 to 6 inches of rain in the region. Some areas are expected to receive up to 8 inches of rain, with the 24-hour total rainfall potentially reaching 10-plus inches over portions of the metro area by Tuesday afternoon. The coastal metro areas have a higher risk of excessive rainfall.
Cause of the Flood Watch
The weather system causing the heavy rain is moving slowly northeast from the Gulf. Although a frontal boundary was expected to push through the region, it is set to remain off the east coast throughout Tuesday. The system’s moisture, combined with Tuesday’s daytime heat, could increase rain in the metro area.
Effects of the Flood Watch
Excessive runoff may result in flooding of creeks and other low-lying, flood-prone locations, such as urban areas and roadways. The National Weather Service has warned that "with these areas being saturated from (Monday’s) heavy rainfall … any additional heavy downpours on Tuesday will create the potential for additional flooding."
⚠️ A Flood Watch will be in effect through 8AM Tuesday.
Precautions and Relief Measures
Several cities have offered free parking in city-operated parking garages to keep cars off flooded streets. These cities include:
- Fort Lauderdale, which has free parking on level 3 and above at two garages: Las Olas Garage, at 200 Las Olas Circle, and Riverwalk Center Garage, at 150 SE 2nd St.
- The city of Hollywood, which has made all four city-operated parking garages free until 8 a.m. Wednesday.
- Miami Beach, which has made nine garages free as well.
🚨Stay weather aware and have multiple ways to receive weather alerts! pic.twitter.com/XOl4Fj6Tyt
— NWS Miami (@NWSMiami) May 12, 2025
Weather Forecast for the Week
Wednesday onward is expected to be dry and sunny, with temperatures rising through the week to reach the mid- to upper-90s over the weekend. Humidity will pick up toward the weekend as well, bringing heat indices up to the triple digits in the interior. Rain pours in Oakland Park near Fort Lauderdale High School on Monday, May 12, 2025. (Joe Cavaretta/South Florida Sun Sentinel)
Conclusion
The flood watch in effect for South Florida through Tuesday is a cause for concern, with excessive rainfall predicted for the region. Residents are advised to stay weather aware and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. The relief measures offered by various cities, such as free parking in city-operated parking garages, can help mitigate the effects of the flood.
FAQs
- Q: How long is the flood watch in effect for South Florida?
A: The flood watch is in effect through 8AM Tuesday. - Q: Which cities are offering free parking in city-operated parking garages?
A: Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and Miami Beach are offering free parking in city-operated parking garages. - Q: What is the predicted weather forecast for the week?
A: Wednesday onward is expected to be dry and sunny, with temperatures rising through the week to reach the mid- to upper-90s over the weekend. - Q: Where can I receive weather alerts?
A: You can receive weather alerts from the National Weather Service and other reliable sources.
Originally Published: May 12, 2025 at 12:24 PM EDT
