FLORIDA — As millions prepare to travel for the Fourth of July holiday, forecasters say beachgoers in Florida may want to rethink their plans. Regardless of potential tropical development off the Southeast coast, heavy rain is expected to soak much of the Sunshine State this week and into the holiday weekend.
FOX Weather meteorologists Michael Estime and Bayne Froney warned Sunday that a washout is likely across Florida’s coastal areas, with several inches of rain forecast for both the Gulf and Atlantic coasts.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) says an area of low pressure could develop later this week or by next weekend, forming from the remnants of a frontal boundary near or along the southeastern U.S. Atlantic or Gulf coasts. However, even if no tropical system forms, forecasters say the region is still in for significant rainfall.
Coastal areas from the Florida Panhandle down through the Sarasota area could see 3 to 5 inches of rain, with localized amounts of up to 8 inches possible. Popular beach destinations such as Panama City, Perry, St. Petersburg, and Tampa are likely to be affected, with outdoor plans potentially washed out.
Heavy rainfall is also expected along Florida’s Atlantic coast, from Jacksonville south through Daytona Beach and into Space Coast communities such as Cocoa Beach and Melbourne. Even inland areas like Orlando are expected to pick up several inches of rain.
The FOX Forecast Center warns that flooding could become a concern in low-lying areas and along coastal communities, especially with the potential for additional tropical moisture to enhance rainfall totals.
With millions expected to hit the roads and beaches for the holiday, officials are urging residents and tourists to monitor the latest weather updates and have backup plans in place.
