The governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis, has issued an executive order declaring a state of emergency for Southeast Florida due to severe flooding and rainfall.
While Broward County officials have not requested assistance from the state, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) has deployed crews to aid with the 1000-year rain event.
.@GovRonDeSantis has issued a State of Emergency for @ReadyBroward & the county has activated their Emergency Operations Center to a Level 2 in response to unprecedented flooding. @FLSERT is on the ground supporting local efforts.
➡️ More information: https://t.co/vtsfbr5zBx
— FL Division of Emergency Management (@FLSERT) April 13, 2023
On Wednesday, southeastern Broward County and northeastern Miami-Dade County saw between 4-8 inches of rainfall, while the Fort Lauderdale metro area was hit hardest with 15-25 inches. The FDEM has sent staff to collect damage assessment data in Broward County, and its director has been in contact with local authorities.
On Thursday, DeSantis warned that the heavy rainfall and flooding may continue to affect critical infrastructure, such as major state and county roadways, airports, hospitals, schools, and other essential infrastructure throughout Broward County.
In addition to widespread flooding, a flood watch remains in effect for coastal and metro Broward and Miami-Dade counties until 8 p.m. Thursday.
