Katie Daly
Updated on: October 12, 2024 5:06 am GMT
Heavy rains over South Santa Rosa County early Monday caused localized flooding, affecting roads and parking areas in the community. With Central Florida experiencing an ongoing afternoon storm pattern this week, residents are urged to remain vigilant as rainstorms are expected to continue.
Rainfall Impact in Navarre
During the early hours, a significant deluge inundated the area, with some reports indicating that between four to six inches of rain fell within a few hours, primarily between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. According to local meteorologist David Eversole from the National Weather Service in Mobile, the rains were especially intense in the coastal regions.
- Flooding forced the closure of several lanes on U.S. Highway 98 near the Walmart Neighborhood Market due to standing water.
- Some areas reported knee-deep water, significantly impacting local traffic and accessibility.
- The heavy rains fully covered the parking lot at the Navarre Beach Pier, rendering it unusable.
“That was some pretty intense, really heavy rain,” remarked Eversole. “It seemed to have set up right there on coastal Santa Rosa County for whatever reason.”
Public Response to Flooding
Residents and officials expressed concerns regarding the flooding, especially in areas where asphalt dominated the landscape. Dara Hartigan, president of Save Our Soundside, emphasized that more permeable surfaces are necessary to improve drainage and reduce flooding risks. “There’s so much asphalt now, the water has no place to go,” she stated.
Santa Rosa County Commissioner Ray Eddington confirmed his awareness of the flooding situation and planned to visit the hardest-hit areas. “I want to see the effects of the rainfall first-hand and ensure residents’ safety,” he said.
Warnings and Precautions
A flash flood warning was issued by the National Weather Service at 4:30 a.m. and was scheduled to expire at 7 a.m. Officials recommended that residents stay informed regarding weather updates and road conditions.
What To Do During Flood Warnings
When faced with severe weather and potential flooding, consider the following safety tips:
- Stay indoors and away from windows during heavy rainfall.
- Do not attempt to drive through flooded roadways; turn around and find an alternate route.
- Keep emergency supplies ready, including water, food, and a flashlight.
- Stay updated through weather apps or local news for real-time information.
Forecast for the Week Ahead
As the week progresses, Central Florida is expected to continue experiencing cloudy skies accompanied by scattered showers and thunderstorms. Residents should be prepared for additional rain events similar to the one that occurred early Monday.
What’s Ahead
Local meteorologists suggest the potential for more localized flooding, especially in low-lying areas. The heavy rainfall pattern is not just confined to Santa Rosa County but is expected to impact surrounding regions as well. Here are key points from the forecast:
- Prolonged cloud cover throughout the week.
- Chances of afternoon thunderstorms almost daily.
- Monitoring of water levels in vulnerable areas is advised to prevent property damage and ensure public safety.
While the storms may provide much-needed rain to dry regions, the risk of flooding and related hazards cannot be understated. Community awareness and readiness are essential as weather patterns continue to change.
As the weather changes, officials are reminding everyone to pay attention to local updates and be ready for any problems that might come up because of the weather.
