DAVIE, FLA. (WSVN) - Heavy rainfall is expected for Memorial Day Weekend in South Florida, as Subtropical Storm Alberto has formed over the Caribbean Sea.
The National Hurricane Center announced Friday morning that Subtropical Storm Alberto has formed over the northwestern Caribbean Sea and is moving toward the Gulf of Mexico.
With heavy rains already beginning Friday afternoon, the National Weather Service issued a flood watch until 8 p.m. for Coastal, Inland and Metro Broward County, and Coastal, Inland, Metro and Far South Miami-Dade County.
Weather officials are expecting flooding and rainfall in some locations that may be two to three times the usual expected rainfall for May. Wind gusts and rough seas are also expected to increase on Saturday, with possible tornadoes over the weekend.
“The bad weather associated with these storms can extend pretty far away from the center of that storm,” said Robert Molleda of the National Weather Service. “That puts South Florida right in the area of where we can experience some of these impacts.”
An event in South Florida was canceled as a result of the expected rain, as well. The Great American Beach Bash in Fort Lauderdale has been canceled due to the weather.
Over the last two weeks, flooding has already been an issue in Miami Beach.
Recent models show some parts of South Florida could see up to a foot of rain by Monday.
The South Florida Water Management District said they have prepared their massive flood control system to protect residents over the next five to seven days. Officials are opening up the pumps to bring down the water levels to sea level.
“Right now, we’ve been pumping 24/7 since last Sunday,” said South Florida Water Management District employee Carl Olsen. “Between the rain from last week and the rain coming in this week, we’re trying to keep it down to keep flooding to a minimum.”
The state is also putting preparations in place before the weekend, as Gov. Rick Scott took the time to remind Floridians to prepare for hurricane season.
“These things are unpredictable. Hopefully, for this event that they’re gonna have this weekend, we don’t get it, but it sure looks like we’re gonna get it, ” Scott said.
The National Weather Service also wants to remind people to keep an eye on the watches and warnings they have been issuing as a result of the weather.
“There’s still some uncertainty involved with every forecast, and that’s why preparations are required whenever you have watches and warnings in your area,” said Dr. Edward Rappaport.
The Water District said one way to help prevent flooding is to go outside and make sure drains are not covered by anything.
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