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Flooding Rains Soak South Florida

BOCA RATON (CBSMiami) – Heavy thunderstorms have been rolled across South Florida most of the day Thursday. The storms produced torrential downpours and possibly even a tornado in Boca Raton.

According to the CBS4 Storm Team, a storm was briefly tornadic in Palm Beach County, which was under a severe thunderstorm warning. The possible tornado hit around 1:25 p.m. and was reported by law enforcement on North Federal Highway in Palm Beach County.

But the bigger and ongoing problem was the heavy rain across the area. Parts of Key West and the Lower Keys saw several inches of rain dumped on the area.

There have been reports of up to two feet of water in parts of Key West with water coming into some shops and restaurants. The radar showed heavy rain and storms stretching from the Fort Pierce area all the way to Key West.

It's crazy you know it's really erratic weather," said Hollywood Resident Alexander Morales.

Near Morales' home on Lee Street, drivers powered through a couple of feet of standing water, while some even took to kayaking to get around.

"We are really susceptible to floods here because of the way the land is, said Morales."

"It actually sits lower than the main streets like US 1 and Sheridan, so this is just like a bowl waiting to fill up."

Meanwhile dozens of flights at the Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport were delayed due to rough weather and flooded runways.

Additionally, the northbound entrance on US 1 was temporarily closed due to flooding, making it difficult for passengers to get in.

 

 

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