MIAMI — The National Hurricane Center forecasted a soggy weekend across much of Florida on Friday, warning of heavy rains and possible flooding from a disorganized weather system.
In Indian River County, the low-pressure area is expected to move across Sebastian and Vero Beach, bringing rain and winds of 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.
As of this morning, it was drifting at around 5 mph, with maximum sustained winds near 30 mph. While not yet a named tropical storm, the system could strengthen slightly before making landfall somewhere between the Florida Panhandle and the Big Bend region early Sunday.
“Residents should prepare for a wet couple of days, with the heaviest downpours likely Saturday night into Sunday,” said NHC senior hurricane specialist John Cangialosi in the agency’s 5 p.m. advisory. “Flash flooding is our main concern, especially in low-lying areas already saturated from recent rains.”
No watches or warnings were in effect as of Friday morning, but the center indicated tropical storm watches could be issued overnight if the system organizes further. Rainfall totals could reach 4 to 8 inches in isolated spots, with gusty winds up to 40 mph possible along the coast.
The forecast comes amid an active Atlantic hurricane season. Florida has dodged major impacts so far this year, but Gov. Ron DeSantis urged caution in a briefing earlier Friday.
“We’re monitoring this closely and have resources ready if needed,” DeSantis said from Tallahassee. “Don’t underestimate even a weaker system — water is the biggest killer in these events.”
Emergency management officials in several counties have advised residents to clear storm drains and secure outdoor items. The system is expected to weaken rapidly after landfall, becoming a remnant low by Monday as it moves inland.
Sebastian Daily will provide ongoing updates on any alerts or developments related to the weather system in Sebastian and Vero Beach, Florida.
