A developing storm system in the Gulf of Mexico is predicted to bring significant rain to the Sunshine State during the next 48 hours, potentially leading to localized flooding, particularly in cities south of Interstate 4.
The FOX Forecast Center has been watching the system’s progress since it passed over the Lone Star State, where significant rains were reported Thursday in Houston and along the Gulf Coast.
The combination of an active subtropical jet and moisture from the Gulf of Mexico is predicted to bring multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms to the Peninsula.
A widespread severe weather outbreak is not expected; nevertheless, waterspouts and tornadoes are likely in the Keys and Everglades on Friday.
While most of the state has remained dry over the last week, showers and thunderstorms may cause flash flooding, particularly in areas with poor drainage.
Computer models predict that by the conclusion of the storm on Saturday, the Interstate 10 corridor from Pensacola to Jacksonville will have received approximately an inch of rain, while South Florida may see larger accumulations.
Cities including Miami, Key West, and Naples are in the 3-6-inch zone, prompting the issue of a Flood Watch until Saturday evening.
“There will be a lot of rain from Friday to early weekend…” “From I-4 southward, 2 to 3 inches or more,” said FOX Weather meteorologist Ian Oliver. “So, this is going to be a tremendously impactful system, and there’ll be more of it as it moves north. When the low enters the Florida Peninsula, it takes on a completely new life.”
During El Niño occurrences in the Central and Eastern Pacific, the Sunshine State often experiences stormy weather patterns in winter and early spring.
According to the most recent drought monitor, none of the state’s 67 counties are facing drought conditions.
Florida is not the only Impacted region
The storm system is forecast to carry moisture along the Interstate 95 corridor, resulting in a Saturday washout for the Northeast’s main cities.
The combination of onshore flow and severe rains will most certainly cause drainage concerns in coastal settlements.
Cities like Washington, New York, and Boston could receive 1 to 3 inches of rain, with greater amounts locally.
Fortunately, the system is predicted to depart quickly, leaving generally bright conditions on Sunday. Temperatures are forecast to fall below normal.