A tropical disturbance caused severe flooding across southern Florida, leading to flight delays at two major airports and leaving many cars stranded in flooded streets, particularly in low-lying areas.
Ted Rico, a local tow truck driver, described the scene as reminiscent of a zombie movie, with abandoned cars scattered everywhere — on sidewalks, medians, and in the middle of roads without lights.
Rico, who grew up in Miami, was prepared for the emergency but noted that each year seems to bring worsening conditions, despite warnings against driving through flooded areas.
Travelers faced disruptions as more than 20 inches of rain fell in some parts of South Florida since Tuesday, with additional rain expected in the coming days.
People travel by raft through a flooded street (Via Mia Alba/Shutterstock)
At Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, long lines formed at ticket counters and security checkpoints, with about half of the flights in one terminal either canceled or delayed.
One traveler, Navy petty officer Bill Carlisle, experienced the chaos firsthand as he struggled to navigate flight cancellations and rebookings between Miami and Fort Lauderdale due to the weather.
Carlisle, a public affairs specialist, expressed understanding for the airport staff amid the challenging circumstances but acknowledged the limitations they faced in managing the situation.
