MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – A flood watch was in effect for Miami-Dade and Broward counties as heavy rain and strong storms drenched much of South Florida Monday morning, creating hazardous travel conditions and raising concerns of flash flooding.
The National Weather Service issued thunderstorm and flood advisory warnings just before 6 a.m., as bands of intense rainfall moved across the region, especially targeting southern Miami-Dade near Homestead, Redland and areas west of U.S. 1. A thunderstorm warning was in effect until at least 6:15 a.m.
Local 10 meteorologist Julie Durda said the threat of severe weather will persist throughout the day, with a marginal risk for more strong storms. The flood watch covers both Miami-Dade and Broward counties and is expected to last until 10:15 a.m. Monday.
6 a.m. report:
“This is very concerning,” Durda said. “We’ve already seen more than two inches of rain in Miami, and with more showers moving in, the biggest concern is flooding.”
Durda said by mid-morning on Monday, radar showed some areas had already received over 3.25 inches of rain in Miami, nearly 2.5 inches in Pembroke Pines, almost 2 inches in Homestead, and over an inch in the Keys.
Wind gusts near Homestead General Aviation Airport topped 60 mph, and severe thunderstorms prompted brief warnings earlier in the day.
Heavy rain caused substantial street flooding Monday morning in parts of Miami Gardens, particularly near North Miami Avenue just off Ives Dairy Road.
Radar showed winds gusting into the 60s in parts of southern Miami-Dade, especially near Homestead General Aviation Airport.
Durda emphasized that residents in the storm’s path should seek shelter immediately.
Steady rain and stormy conditions rolled into Hollywood and much of South Florida on Monday morning, prompting concerns about flooding, strong wind gusts and hazardous driving conditions.
Local 10’s Hannah Yechivi reported live from Hollywood, where rain began picking up just before sunrise. Meteorologists say the region could see up to 6 inches of rain throughout the day, increasing the risk of street flooding, especially in low-lying areas prone to water accumulation.
Flooding continued to impact parts of Miami Gardens on Monday morning, with significant water buildup reported at the intersection of Northeast 183rd Street and North Miami Avenue.
To help mitigate flood-related vehicle damage, the city of Hollywood is offering free parking in all four of its municipal garages through Tuesday morning.
Miami Beach is also providing free parking at city-owned garages for residents concerned about rising water levels.
Despite the hazards, the rainfall could bring some relief to drought-stricken areas of South Florida, where recent brush fires have plagued parts of the Florida Keys.
Temperatures remained in the 70s, with rain chances staying high throughout the day. The flood watch is expected to last until at least 10:15 a.m. Monday, but forecasters said conditions could lead to extended advisories.
Authorities are urging drivers to use caution, avoid flooded roads and stay informed as weather conditions evolve.
For the hour-by-hour forecast and a live radar, visit this page.