Residents in Miami and South Florida are preparing for heavy rainfall this week, with the forecast predicting a 90% chance of showers and thunderstorms today and possible rainfall of three-quarters to one inch. Conditions may worsen with the approach of Hurricane Milton, currently a Category 2 hurricane with sustained winds up to 100 mph, according to the National Weather Service.
Monday morning brought widespread rain, prompting a flood watch until Thursday due to expected rainfall totals of 4–8 inches, with some areas possibly exceeding 10 inches. There is a moderate flood risk, with a level 3 out of 4 alert for potential flooding from heavy downpours. A weak low-pressure system off Florida's west coast is contributing to these showers and thunderstorms, NBC Miami reports.
The situation is compounded by the incoming Hurricane Milton, which is not only strengthening but is also expected to merge with a front bringing lots of shear, possibly weakening it but still maintaining its status as a large and powerful threat. In anticipation, tropical storm watches and hurricane watches have been put in effect for parts of the Florida Keys and Mainland Monroe County, as well as for the Dry Tortugas, with storm surge watches for Florida’s Gulf Coast, per NBC Miami.
Looking ahead: Tuesday promises a 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, and come Wednesday tropical storm conditions are possible with an 70% chance of rain, including possible thunderstorms. The risk diminishes slightly on Thursday with partly sunny skies forecast, though it will still be quite windy, according to the National Weather Service. Residents are urged to prepare for these conditions, stay updated on the weather, and remain vigilant as Hurricane Milton's path changes.
