Boca Raton Battles Storm: Roads Flooded, Cars Abandoned, More Rain Expected
Recent severe storms have left Boca Raton, Florida, grappling with significant flooding. The torrential rain on Sunday night transformed streets into rivers, stranding vehicles and overwhelming drainage systems. Residents are now concerned about the ongoing threat of more rain.
Boca Raton Flooding Details
According to CBS12 Stormtrac Meteorologists, southern Palm Beach County experienced heavy rainfall, with some areas receiving between 5 to 7 inches within just a few hours. This precipitation led to record-breaking daily rainfall totals for October 26 in neighboring cities:
- West Palm Beach: 2.37 inches
- Vero Beach: 3.77 inches
City Response and Recovery Efforts
Boca Raton city crews worked overnight into Monday morning to assess and address the damage caused by this extreme weather event. Officials described it as unprecedented and are actively engaging in recovery efforts. Flooding affected numerous locations, including residential areas and commercial properties.
Jordan Noel, a technician at Autobahn Auto Center, reported significant flooding on-site, stating, “I’ve never seen it flood like that in here before.” Meanwhile, Geri Bell, a local resident, expressed concerns over chronic flooding in her apartment complex along North Federal Highway.
Challenges Faced by Residents
On North Federal Highway, several vehicles were left stranded in the floodwaters, illustrating the extent of the issue. Bell described multiple cars trapped in the area, and she lamented the city’s infrastructure shortcomings. “It’d be nice if the city took care of this little intersection here,” Bell said, highlighting the need for improved drainage solutions.
Current Conditions and Precautions
By Monday morning, many floodwaters had receded, allowing streets to clear more rapidly. However, certain areas remain waterlogged, and cleanup operations are ongoing. Emergency towing services were busy removing abandoned vehicles as residents sought to recover their stranded cars. Priority Towing and Guardian Towing worked diligently, although delays may arise due to the number of vehicles affected.
With more rainfall forecasted, city officials urge residents to stay vigilant. They recommend avoiding flooded areas and emphasize the importance of safety:
- Do not drive through flooded streets.
- Turn around if you see water on the road.
- Report issues with clogged storm drains by calling 561-416-3402.
- If stranded, contact Boca Raton Police’s non-emergency line at 561-368-6201.
City officials are continuously monitoring the situation and will provide updates as needed. As Boca Raton prepares for more rain, residents are reminded to prioritize their safety and preparedness.
