Heavy rainfall and severe weather could affect Central and other parts of Florida through Friday, as a result of a storm system in the Gulf of Mexico.
“The forecast and the strength of this system as it approaches landfall is still uncertain, and impacts from the storm may be felt statewide” said FDEM Director Bryan W. Koon. “All Floridians should monitor local impacts of this storm and follow all instructions from local officials. You can also find updates from the Division on social media at facebook.com/FloridaSert and @FLSERT.”
Impacts from this system are already being felt in South and Central Florida, and these areas will continue to feel affects throughout the day on Thursday. A high risk of rip currents is expected along the entire Florida Gulf Coast through early Saturday. The North and Central Atlantic coast will see a moderate to high risk of rip currents beginning Thursday morning and lasting through the weekend.
The entire Florida Peninsula may see a chance of severe weather Thursday, with the possibility of tornadoes. In addition, gusty winds and lightning strikes will be possible with any thunderstorms that develop.
This system could bring 6-7 inches of rain to South Florida, 4-6 inches across the Florida Peninsula, and 1-3 inches in the Florida Panhandle over the next three days, with increased amounts in isolated areas. Flood watches are already in effect for portions of the state.
The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 – November 30. For more information on the Florida Division of Emergency Management and to GET A PLAN!, visit www.FloridaDisaster.org. Follow us on Twitter at @FLSERT and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/FloridaSERT and www.Facebook.com/KidsGetAPlan.
