A coastal flood warning remained in effect Wednesday along South Florida’s east coast, where the National Weather Service said major flooding was possible. The warning stretches from Palm Beach County south to the Florida Keys and includes West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Miami and Homestead.
The warning followed an unusually high reading Tuesday at the Virginia Key tidal gauge. The gauge recorded its third-highest peak value since consistent records began at the site in 1994, according to the National Weather Service office serving Miami and South Florida. Only peaks recorded during hurricanes Wilma and Irma were higher.
Forecasters said coastal flooding could remain a concern through the end of the week. The expected flooding ranges from minor to moderate in some locations, while water levels in other areas could approach the major-flooding threshold. The warning applies to tidal areas along the region’s Atlantic coast, including communities that regularly experience water rising onto roads and other low-lying areas during unusually high tides.
High tides expected to continue
The South Florida Water Management District’s king tide forecast, issued Oct. 26 and covering conditions through Nov. 3, said tidal water levels along the east coast could remain above the National Weather Service threshold for moderate flooding in the coming days. Some locations were expected to approach the threshold for major flooding on Wednesday and Thursday.
“Tidal water levels” along the east coast of South Florida could stay above the National Weather Service “Moderate Flooding” threshold in the “coming days, with some locations approaching the ‘Major Flooding’ threshold today and tomorrow.” — South Florida Water Management District
The district forecast said the highest tides along the east coast were expected during a broader period extending from Oct. 26 through Nov. 12. In the Florida Keys, tidal water levels were near the moderate-flooding threshold when the forecast was posted and could remain above the minor-flooding threshold during the weekend.
Officials use the term king tide for exceptionally high tides, although it is not a scientific designation. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says the term is commonly used for unusually high water levels produced by the normal cycle of the tides. When those tides coincide with other conditions that raise coastal water, flooding can occur even without a tropical cyclone.
- Warning area: Palm Beach County through the Florida Keys.
- Communities named by officials: West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Miami and Homestead.
- Virginia Key record: Third-highest peak since consistent records began in 1994.
The National Weather Service urged residents and travelers in the warning area to follow local flood information and to avoid flooded roads. The coastal flood warning and the district’s tide forecast provide the current guidance as elevated water levels continue across South Florida.
