HOLLYWOOD, FLA. (WSVN) - Although Hurricane Ian is not impacting South Florida directly, many residents who live in flood-prone areas are preparing by filling up sandbags in case of heavy rainfall.
Hurricane Ian might not be heading toward South Florida, but residents like Richard Neederman aren’t taking any chances.
“I am just happy I have the strength to do it,” he said. “I usually take pillowcases and fill them with sand.”
7News lent a hand on Monday, as he prepped his home for whatever Ian throws our way.
“I’m concerned about water,” said Neederman.
Water is what is in the forecast. Inches of rainfall are expected across the area on top of king tides.
That’s what led Neederman and many others to stock up and help each other fill sandbags at Mills Pond Park in Fort Lauderdale.
“Everybody works together,” said Neederman.
“Rain could do a lot of damage,” said a woman collecting sand bags.
There was a similar mindset in Pembroke Pines and in Miami-Dade at Douglas Park.
“If you position correctly, it will stop a lot of water from going inside your home,” said Sam.
Spots prone to flooding like Hollywood Lakes are already seeing some soggy roads.
“I’m hoping it doesn’t get any worse than this,” said Danielle Borromeo.
Pumps have been put in place, emptying out storm drains in the da and on standby at night.
“This area, any severe rain or tropical storm that just hangs on top of us, will flood absolutely,” said Patrick.
“An estimated 3 to 8 inches of rain is expected through Thursday, with flash and urban flooding a possibility,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine-Cava.
Monday night, in different parts of Brickell, sandbags were placed in front of businesses as they prepare to keep out rising water.
Some places took it a step further by shuttering the storefronts.
“We’re installing temporary dams around some of our largest and low-lying pumps stations, and we will have extra staff at all of our water and sewer facilities in event of any issues during the storms,” said Levine Cava.
7News cameras also showed many people packing up sandbags to protect their homes.
“Last time I had a lot of water damage in the garage, and hopefully it will help protect,” said Sam.
Back in Broward, the day was spent preparing and remembering what being a good neighbor is really about.
“It’s not a lesson, a reinforcement of what I already know about people,” said Neederman.
Some distribution locations may require residents to bring their own shovels and bags.
For sandbag distribution locations in both Miami-Dade and Broward counties, click here.
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