Weather
Florida Flood Alert: Rivers Rising After Up to 24 Inches of Rain
Cocoa, FL – Flooding remains a serious concern across parts of Florida following extraordinary rainfall totals reaching as high as 24 inches in some locations. Rivers are continuing to rise, and flood
By Lauren Beckett · 2026-11-04T16:21:16.114Z
Cocoa, FL – Flooding remains a serious concern across parts of Florida following extraordinary rainfall totals reaching as high as 24 inches in some locations. Rivers are continuing to rise, and flooded roads are creating dangerous travel conditions across affected communities.
According to the National Weather Service, slow draining waterways, including the St. Johns and Peace rivers, are expected to continue rising into moderate to major flood stages. Flood warnings remain in effect in affected areas, with numerous roads reportedly closed or underwater.
One particularly concerning location is the St. Johns River near Cocoa in Brevard County, east of the Orlando metropolitan area.
The National Weather Service river forecast graphic shows the water level near 16.69 feet, already above the moderate flood threshold of 16.5 feet. The river is projected to reach approximately 17 feet, the threshold for major flood stage, before leveling off.
The forecast suggests that elevated river levels could persist for several days, even after the heaviest rainfall has ended.
A separate National Weather Service rainfall analysis highlights significant precipitation across Central and South Florida, including areas near Orlando, the Space Coast and portions of the state's interior.
Unlike flash flooding, which can develop rapidly during intense rainfall, river flooding may continue or worsen days after storms move away. Water from upstream locations gradually moves into rivers and low lying areas, extending flooding concerns.
Residents near flood prone roads, rivers and drainage systems should remain alert for changing conditions. Drivers should never attempt to cross flooded roadways, even when the water appears shallow.
The National Weather Service continues to emphasize its safety message: Turn Around, Don't Drown.
Residents should monitor updated river forecasts, local emergency management announcements and road closure information before traveling.