FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — A tropical disturbance has caused a rare flash flood emergency in southern Florida, leading to heavy rainfall on Thursday and Friday.
Wednesday’s downpours and resulting flooding disrupted transportation, including delaying the Florida Panthers on their way to Stanley Cup games in Canada against the Edmonton Oilers.
The disorganized storm system is moving across Florida from the Gulf of Mexico during the beginning of hurricane season, which is predicted to be very active this year. Concerns about climate change potentially increasing storm intensity have been raised.
The storm has not yet become a cyclone and is unlikely to develop into a tropical system once it moves into the Atlantic Ocean after crossing Florida, according to the National Hurricane Center.
The National Weather Service in Miami warned of heavy rainfall in the region for the third consecutive day, potentially leading to more flash flooding.
Roads are still flooded and impassable for vehicles, with Interstate 95 in Broward County experiencing major flooding. The Miami weather service office issued urgent warnings urging residents to stay off the roads and seek higher ground.
Emergency declarations have been made by mayors in Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood, along with a state of emergency declared by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis for five counties.
Flight disruptions have occurred at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, and the Florida Panthers experienced a significant delay in departing for games in the Stanley Cup Final.
The National Weather Service confirmed an EF-1 tornado hit Hobe Sound north of West Palm Beach, causing damage and blocking access to Jupiter Island.
The week has been characterized by heavy rainfall across the state, with more rain expected for the coming days. The potential for significant rain has prompted a flash flood watch through Thursday.
The western side of the state, which has been experiencing a prolonged drought, also received substantial rainfall. The forecast predicts an active hurricane season, with potentially above-average storm activity.
This story corrects the spelling of Brian McNoldy’s first name.
Frisaro reported from Fort Lauderdale. Associated Press sports writer Stephen Whyno in Edmonton, Canada, contributed to this story.