Florida Declares Emergency as ‘Once-in-1,000-Year’ Rain Floods East Coast

Florida declared a state of emergency for seven counties after torrential rain flooded communities along the state’s east coast, with the National Weather Service describing the downpour as a 1-in-1,000-year event.

Staggering rain totals

About 24 inches of rain fell near Malabar, and about 20 inches was reported in Palm Bay, both in Brevard County on the Space Coast, according to the Weather Service. Rain of that intensity overwhelmed drainage systems, turning streets into rivers and pushing water into homes and businesses.

Deaths and rescues

Two people died in the flooding, officials said. Emergency crews carried out about 160 rescues, pulling residents from flooded homes and stranded vehicles. Many rescues happened overnight as water rose quickly.

Officials urged people to stay off flooded roads, warning that even shallow moving water can sweep a vehicle away.

River flooding to last for days

The danger is not over. The Weather Service issued a flood warning for the St. Johns River that runs through the weekend, with the river expected to crest near 17 feet. Because the St. Johns flows slowly north, water from heavy rain can take days to drain, keeping nearby neighborhoods under threat long after skies clear.

Water safety

In Melbourne, authorities issued boil-water notices for parts of the city after the flooding affected water service. Residents in those areas were told to boil tap water before drinking it or using it for cooking until further notice.

State response

The emergency declaration allows the state to send resources more quickly, move National Guard members and equipment if needed, and seek federal help. State and county emergency managers opened shelters for displaced residents and began assessing damage.

How rare is it

A 1-in-1,000-year rain event means there is a 0.1 percent chance of that much rain falling in a given location in any year. Such events are becoming more frequent in many parts of the country, and climate scientists note that a warmer atmosphere can hold more moisture, which fuels heavier downpours.

What comes next

Residents should check with county officials before returning to flooded homes, document damage for insurance claims and avoid contact with floodwater, which can contain sewage and debris.

How we reported this

This report draws on reporting from the Associated Press and other major news organizations, named in the text. Figures from early or partial counts are identified as such and may change. BURN VOC will update this story as new information is released.