Tropical Disturbance Could Bring Rain, Flooding To South Florida

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MIAMI (CBSMiami) - South Florida could be in store for another wet and rainy weekend.

The National Hurricane Center reports that the tropical disturbance over the Yucatan Peninsula is gradually becoming better defined and now has a higher chance of development.

There is now a high potential (70% chance) of development over the next 48 hours.

Whether or not the disturbance develops into something more, South Florida will likely see a lot of rain and wind over the next few days.

Because this broad surface low-pressure system is battling some high wind shear and interacting with land, most of the convection associated with this system is to the east of the center.

As this disturbance lifts to the north into the Gulf of Mexico this weekend, and environmental conditions become more favorable for development, there is a higher 90% chance this system could develop into a tropical or sub-tropical depression sometime this weekend in the southeastern Gulf of Mexico.

The European model has forecast rainfall totals ranging from 2 to 4 inches through Monday. The GFS model is forecasting rainfall totals ranging from 4 to 8 inches through Monday. The track will determine how much rain we will see.

Even if the center tracks to our west, we will be on the east side, or the dirty side, of the system and heavy downpours and flooding will be possible.

Residents should have a plan in place for securing any yard items that could be blown away during gusty storms.

For those who live in flood-prone areas, be ready for streets to potentially be under water.

Also, have candles and flashlights handy just in case of a power outage.

Throughout the weekend folks living along the Gulf Coast and all of Florida need to closely monitor this disturbance.