Hazardous marine and beach conditions are in effect across the east coast of South Florida, according to the National Weather Service Forecast Office Miami-South Florida.
In the upper Florida Keys, a coastal flood statement is in effect "through late tonight," according to the NWS, with "minor saltwater flooding of low elevation streets and lots" likely.
Additionally, a small craft advisory is in effect along parts of the coast of South Florida, with seas of seven to 10 feet and winds around 20 knots "across the Atlantic late tonight through at least Friday night."
There is also a high risk of rip currents for coastal Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties — in Palm Beach County, the risk will last from "late tonight" through Saturday morning,
and from Friday afternoon through Saturday morning in Broward and Miami-Dade.
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Safety tips for flooding
During a flood event, you should stay away from floodwaters, according to Miami-Dade County.
It takes 6 inches of swiftly moving water to sweep a person off their feet, 12 inches of rushing water to carry away a small car and two feet to carry away "most vehicles."
Water can also be deeper than it appears, "hiding all kinds of hazards that could hurt you or disable your car," like debris, sharp objects, downed power lines and "even dangerous wildlife."
The NWS recommends knowing alternate routes for travel "should roadways become flooded" and moving valuables and vehicles from low-lying areas and those prone to flooding.
How to escape a rip current
If you find yourself caught in a rip current, the best thing you can do is stay calm, according to NOAA. If you panic and attempt to fight the current, you run the risk of exhausting yourself. Additionally, you should always swim near a lifeguard. If caught in a current, call and wave for help.
It's possible to escape the current by swimming along with it, parallel to shore. If you cannot free yourself, float or tread water.
Florida weather radar
Sarah Perkel is a South Florida Connect Reporter for the USA TODAY Network's Florida Connect team. You can get all of Florida’s best content directly in your inbox each weekday day by signing up for the free newsletter, Florida TODAY.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Coastal flooding expected with high seas in South Florida
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