The 2024 hurricane season in Florida begins with heavy rains

Severe Flooding Strikes Southern Florida

As a tropical disturbance unleashed dangerous flooding in southern Florida, roads were blocked, vehicles floated, and even the Florida Panthers faced delays getting to their Stanley Cup games in Canada against the Edmonton Oilers.

Impending Hurricane Season

Amid the early June hurricane season kickoff, forecasters predict an exceptionally active season, raising concerns about climate change intensifying storm activity.

Forecast and Alerts

The storm system, while not yet a cyclone, may develop slightly once it moves into the Atlantic. The National Hurricane Center anticipates heavy rainfall across Florida in the days ahead.

Road Closures and Emergency Declarations

With numerous flooded roads rendering them impassable, mayors in Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood declared states of emergency. Florida’s Governor later followed suit for five affected counties.

Personal Stories and Impact

Residents like Mike Viesel and Alfredo Rodriguez shared their struggles with floodwater, as neighborhoods experienced repeated flooding incidents, causing significant inconveniences.

Transportation Disruption

Flight delays and cancellations at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, along with a three-hour delay for the Florida Panthers’ flight, added to the chaos.

Tornado Strikes and Rainfall Totals

An EF-1 tornado hit Hobe Sound, damaging trees and structures. The state witnessed heavy rainfall, with some areas receiving up to 9 inches in a single day.

Forecasts and Warnings

Anticipating more rain and flash floods, Miami’s weather service office extended a flood watch, with some regions bracing for an additional 6 inches of rain. A drought-stricken western Florida also faced substantial rainfall.

Upcoming Hurricane Season

The NOAA predicts an above-average Atlantic hurricane season, with an estimated 17 to 25 named storms, including up to 13 hurricanes and four major hurricanes.

Previous Flooding Impact

Fort Lauderdale, previously hit hard by record rainfall, faced significant flooding in April 2023, causing damage to homes and businesses.

Associated Press sports writer Stephen Whyno in Edmonton, Canada, and Freida Frisaro in Cooper City, Florida, contributed to this story.