Tampa, Fla. – Urban flooding is possible across Tampa Bay and southwest Florida today as up to 4 inches of rain may fall on already saturated ground. Roads in low-lying areas could be impassable by afternoon, and standing water may slow commutes across Sarasota, Fort Myers, and Naples.
According to the National Weather Service in Tampa Bay, widespread rainfall totals between 0.5 and 1.5 inches are expected throughout Monday, with isolated areas seeing significantly more. This comes on top of weekend rainfall, pushing soil and drainage systems past their limits.
Localized flooding is likely in urban neighborhoods with poor drainage, particularly during periods of heavier downpours. Emergency officials are urging drivers to avoid flooded streets and to allow extra travel time. Rain is forecast to continue through the evening hours, with the heaviest showers likely between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m.
In Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Lee counties, residents are advised to secure outdoor items and monitor for flash flood alerts. Power outages may occur if storms intensify.
The National Weather Service has issued a Level 2 out of 4 excessive rainfall risk across all of west-central and southwest Florida. Additional advisories may be issued if conditions worsen.
