Residents in Hollywood, Florida witnessed unusual street flooding last Friday, caused not by rain, but by water from the intracoastal rising through storm drains during a king tide. “I have never seen it like this,” said resident Jose Diaz.
Higher Tides Than Expected
Tides are surpassing predictions by 6-8 inches, causing flooding in areas not typically affected during king tides, observed Dr. Nancy Gassman of Fort Lauderdale. “The Gulf Stream has been slowing down… increasing the sea level we’re experiencing,” she said.
Fort Lauderdale is actively working on resiliency projects to combat high tides and rising sea levels, including raising seawalls and implementing improvements in neighborhoods affected by extreme rain and tidal flooding. “The expectation of this plan is to… do both public and private improvements,” Gassman mentioned.
Hollywood’s $100 Million Effort
Mayor Josh Levy announced a $100 million initiative addressing flooding, promising significant changes in Hollywood Beach within three years. The plan involves raising roads, improving drainage contours, enhancing storm systems, and installing pumps to prevent intracoastal water from entering storm drains.
Levy also noted an upcoming $30 million project for raising city-owned seawalls and adding more pumps. “This is a big nuisance,” commented resident Michael Bronstein on the flooding, emphasizing the projects’ importance to the local community.
Advisory Due to King Tides
King tides, expected until Wednesday, might extend if higher-than-forecasted tides continue. The highest tide is likely on Saturday morning, with minor flooding expected around high tides in the coming days due to the gravitational pull from Friday’s full harvest moon and the sun’s equatorial position. A coastal flood advisory will remain active until 3:00 PM Sunday. Residents are advised to avoid and promptly rinse after driving through flood areas.
