Key Points Summary: Rain Storm Floods
- Rain storm floods roads across the Southeast, triggering alerts
- 36 million at risk as tornadoes and damaging winds sweep region
- Up to 10 inches of rain expected in Florida, Georgia, and Alabama
- Airports in Miami and Tampa report major delays and cancellations
- North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia see roads submerged
- Power outages leave over 20,000 without electricity in storm zone
- Storm to move northward, threatening Mid-Atlantic with floods
A massive rainstorm slammed the southeastern United States on May 12, unleashing floods, severe storms, and travel chaos from Florida to the Carolinas.
Forecasters placed 36 million people under severe weather threats. The National Weather Service warned of hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes. One twister was already reported in Palm Beach, Florida.
Torrential Rainfall Engulfs Carolina Roads
North Carolina took a major hit. Valle Crucis and Boone in Watauga County were swamped by high water, even though they were still recovering from last fall’s Hurricane Helene.
In eastern parts of the state, 2 to 4 inches of rain fell rapidly. As a result, flash flood warnings were issued for creeks, streets, and underpasses. Rivers began overflowing in several low-lying zones.
Meanwhile, the storm is expected to continue moving northward throughout the week, raising fears of flooding in the Mid-Atlantic.
Up to 10 Inches Forecast in Parts of South
According to AccuWeather, a dozen states will likely face at least 2 inches of rainfall. However, Florida, southern Georgia, and Alabama may see up to 10 inches — nearly two months of rain in just a few days.
Consequently, flood watches remain in place across South Florida, central Alabama, and both Carolinas. Experts believe this could be the worst downpour since Hurricane Helene hit last September.
Already, central South Carolina and eastern Georgia received 3 to 6 inches of rain within 24 hours. Some pockets along the Appling-Barnwell line saw up to 10 inches.
Airports Hit with Flight Delays and Cancellations
Travel disruptions began early. In Miami alone, more than 40 flights were canceled while around 160 faced delays. Departures were delayed by an average of 90 minutes.
In response, the Federal Aviation Administration issued alerts for possible ground stops in Tampa, Miami, and Atlanta. With continuous rainfall, further delays seem inevitable.
Severe Storms Leave Florida Communities in Ruins
The same storm system caused chaos in Florida over the weekend. Tornadoes ravaged Destin and Esto, tearing through homes and downing power lines.
Furthermore, since the Southeast is saturated, even brief rain bursts can trigger flash floods. Saturated soil cannot absorb additional rain, increasing surface runoff and flood risk.
Thousands Without Power as Lines Go Down
Storm-related power outages are rising fast. More than 20,000 customers lost power across Florida, Georgia, and Alabama.
Florida reported the most disruptions, with 9,500 homes losing electricity. Miami-Dade and Broward counties faced the worst, each logging over 3,000 outages.
Moreover, utility companies are preparing for more outages as wind speeds pick up.
Emergency Crews on Alert as Flood Risk Grows
Officials are urging residents to avoid nonessential travel. Many streets remain underwater. Emergency crews stand ready to assist trapped residents.
Public safety teams are monitoring developments closely. So far, rescue teams have already answered dozens of emergency calls.
Storm Marches North, Mid-Atlantic Next in Line
As the storm continues its journey up the Eastern Seaboard, Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania are bracing for impact.
Because rivers are rising and drains are overflowing, forecasters are warning residents to take precautions now. Flood threats will likely escalate in the coming days.
The rainstorm, which originated in the Gulf, is shaping up to be one of the most destructive spring weather events this year.
