HOLLYWOOD, Fla. – With the Earth, the October supermoon, and the sun in alignment and strong winds, the king tides in South Florida caused dangerous swimming and surfing conditions.
In Miami-Dade and Broward counties, a coastal flood advisory was in effect through 8 p.m., Sunday, and a rip current advisory was in effect through Sunday evening. Broward also had a high surf advisory in effect until 2 p.m., Saturday.
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The Florida Keys was also under a coastal flood statement through late Saturday warning of minor saltwater flooding in low-elevation streets. Boaters should also expect less clearance under fixed bridges.
Safety tips on the road
- “Do note enter floodwater and do not allow children to play in floodwater”
- “Motorists are urged to use caution and seek alternate routes to avoid traveling on flooded streets.”
- Residents in flood zones should have sandbags and review their flood insurance policy
Source: City of Miami, City of Hollywood, City of Coral Gables
Safety tips at the beach
- “Check conditions before entering the water: are any warning flags up? Ask a lifeguard about water conditions, beach conditions, and potential hazards”
- “If you do get caught in a riptide, don’t panic. Try to remain calm and swim parallel to shore to get out of it. If you try to swim against the current, you might get exhausted and really panic even more.”
- “Never enter the water yourself without a floatation device in effort to save someone else. Many people have died trying to rescue someone caught in a rip current.”
Source: American Red Cross, National Drowning Prevention Alliance, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration