This past Sunday, social media platforms were awash with dramatic images of flooded streets and heavy downpours impacting various areas in South Florida. Torrential rains resulted in significant precipitation accumulations within a few hours, raising the risk of further storms and flooding on Monday.
Throughout Sunday afternoon, areas including Kendall, Miami Beach, and Weston experienced substantial rainfall. In Kendall, a remarkable 7.93 inches of rain fell, mostly within nearly two hours under a flash flood alert, as reported by Telemundo 51. Miami Beach saw 6.23 inches, leading to completely submerged streets, while Weston and Pembroke Pines recorded 4.71 and 4.48 inches, respectively.
The Instagram account Only in Dade captured the extraordinary scenes from Sunday's downpours in a series of over twenty videos.
Ultra Music Festival Triumphs Over Weather
Despite the adverse weather conditions, the Ultra Music Festival, an electronic music extravaganza, successfully concluded on Sunday in downtown Miami, drawing over 150,000 attendees. Even with water leaking through a hole in one of the stage roofs and a brief pause urging attendees to seek shelter for safety, the event continued as the doors reopened. The festivities extended an hour longer due to rain-induced delays.
Monday's Weather Warning
The rainfall left the ground in South Florida saturated, posing a heightened risk with the potential for additional storms on Monday afternoon. A blend of morning humidity and sunshine is anticipated to destabilize the atmosphere, sparking storms starting around noon, intensifying after 3:00 p.m. Although the expected pattern is similar to Sunday's, the storms could be more isolated. Nonetheless, some may become severe, with damaging winds, small hail, and even an isolated tornado possible, according to local reports. Authorities warn that flooding could reoccur in areas already affected due to saturated grounds.
Staying Safe During Storms and Floods
Residents are advised to avoid flooded areas, as water levels might be deeper than they appear. As little as six inches of water can cause a vehicle to lose traction, and twelve inches can make it float. When thunder is heard, the safest course of action is to seek indoor shelter away from windows, as lightning can strike even if the storm seems distant.
Forecast for Tuesday and the Week Ahead
For Tuesday, a pattern of more isolated storms is expected, primarily in the afternoon and towards the state's interior. High temperatures are predicted to hover around 90°F, with a higher heat index due to humidity. Throughout the remainder of the week, conditions are anticipated to stabilize, featuring sunny periods and warm temperatures under the influence of a persistent south-southeast flow.
Understanding Miami's Weather Patterns
How much rain did Kendall receive during the storm?
Kendall received 7.93 inches of rain, mostly within a span of nearly two hours.
What impact did the storm have on the Ultra Music Festival?
The Ultra Music Festival experienced a brief pause for safety reasons due to water leakage, but it concluded successfully with over 150,000 attendees and an extended hour of festivities.
What safety measures should be taken during storms and floods?
Avoid flooded areas, as water depths may be deceptive. Six inches of water can cause a vehicle to lose control, and it is safest to stay indoors away from windows when thunder is heard.