Flood Watch, Tornadoes Possible For South Florida

MIAMI, Florida - Flooding rain, tropical storm-force winds, coastal flooding, and the possibility of a few tornadoes can be expected for South Florida on Saturday and Sunday as Tropical Depression Four moves west-northwestward across the Straits of Florida into the Gulf of Mexico, according to the National Weather Service in Miami.

Flood Watch

A Flood Watch is in effect for Broward, Collier, Glades, Hendry, Miami-Dade, Monroe, and Palm Beach counties through Sunday.

Widespread rainfall totals of 2-5 inches across South Florida, with localized higher amounts in excess of 8 inches, are possible.

Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas.

The greatest chances for storms are over Southwest Florida and the interior portions of South Florida.

Tornadoes 

A tornado or two is possible Saturday night through Sunday morning, mainly in Southwest Florida.

Wind

The highest probabilities for sustained tropical storm-force winds will be along the Gulf coast of Southwest Florida, including Collier and mainland Monroe Counties and adjacent Gulf waters. All of South Florida could see strong winds gusts with squalls.

Coastal Flooding/Surge 

Higher-than-usual tides due to the combination of surge from Tropical Depression Four and the upcoming new moon could lead to coastal flooding of 1 to 3 feet along coastal Collier and mainland Monroe Counties from Saturday evening through Sunday.

Other vulnerable coastal areas of southern Florida could also experience minor coastal flooding, especially around the times of high tide.