South Florida’s rainy season is getting underway. According to the National Weather Service, the South Florida rainy season is defined as the time of year when most of the yearly rainfall occurs. The rainy season typically starts in May and ends in mid-October. During this nearly five-month period, South Florida receives about 70% of the rainfall for the entire year. The start date of the rainy season varies from year to year and is largely determined by the onset and almost daily persistence of showers and thunderstorms over the Florida peninsula.
Weather hazards associated with the rainy season include lightning, gusty and damaging thunderstorm winds, flooding, hail and even tornadoes. May to August is the period when most of South Florida’s severe weather (flooding, large hail, tornadoes and strong winds) takes place. Also, rip currents are common due to the persistent onshore winds.These hazards do not include impacts from any tropical systems that can affect South Florida, particularly during the peak months of August, September and October.
The regular thunderstorms associated with the rainy season can result in minor to moderate street flooding, power outages, downed electrical lines and trees, and other damage. The City of Hollywood urges residents to be prepared and informed. Residents are encouraged to visit the National Weather Service at http://weather.gov/southflorida to get updated weather information or tune into local media outlets. Residents should also be aware of the need to seek safe indoor shelter in the event of an strong or severe thunderstorm. The City of Hollywood Emergency Management division provides updated severe weather preparedness information at www.hollywoodfl.org/emergency.
City of Hollywood personnel are ready to respond to severe weather situations and emergencies. Hollywood Police, Fire Rescue and Beach Safety, Public Works, Public Utilities and Emergency Management monitor all potential threats to the area and respond to any parts of the City that are impacted by severe weather. If you encounter a flooded roadway, down tree or power line or any other storm-related hazard, please avoid the area and call the Hollywood Police Department non-emergency number at 954.764.HELP (4357) to report the hazard. Hollywood crews will respond to the affected area as quickly as possible.