Tampa, Florida – A tropical disturbance crossing Florida Tuesday is soaking much of the state and placing over 30 counties under a Flood Watch from Tampa to Orlando and into the Space Coast. Up to 4 inches of rain—or more—could fall by 8 p.m., triggering street flooding in urban and low-lying areas.
According to the National Hurricane Center, the system—designated Invest 93—remains poorly organized but is pushing west across the peninsula with widespread tropical downpours. It has a 40% chance of developing into a depression as it moves into the northeastern Gulf of Mexico by Wednesday.
The National Weather Service has issued Flood Watches through 8 p.m. Tuesday for regions spanning from Levy and Citrus counties on the Gulf Coast to Brevard, Marion, Orange, and Seminole counties inland and east. Cities impacted include Tampa, Orlando, Ocala, Lakeland, Brooksville, and Melbourne.
Rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches are likely, but isolated bands may dump up to 7 inches, especially where storms repeat. The heaviest rain is expected during the afternoon and evening commute.
“Localized flash flooding is possible in areas with poor drainage,” the NWS Tampa Bay office warned. “Creeks and streams may rise quickly.”
Residents are urged to avoid flooded roads, secure loose outdoor items, and stay weather-aware as conditions evolve. Emergency officials recommend charging devices and preparing for potential power outages or travel delays.
The system’s slow movement and tropical moisture feed will keep storms ongoing through tonight. Although drier air may arrive midweek, runoff from earlier rainfall could still pose a threat into Wednesday.
Flood Watches remain in effect across Central Florida through 8 p.m., with additional alerts possible if rainfall intensifies or the tropical low strengthens.
