Explore

Florida Chimpanzee Sanctuary Flooded After Historic Storms, Drones Used for Deliveries

Florida Chimpanzee Sanctuary Flooded After Historic Storms, Drones Used for Deliveries

A 150-acre chimpanzee sanctuary in Fort Pierce, Florida, remains flooded days after historic storms brought record rainfall to parts of the Space Coast, beginning on November 1, 2026. Back-to-back 1,000-year rainfall events on Sunday and Monday caused widespread flash flooding, inundating neighborhoods in Melbourne, Port St. Lucie, and Palm Bay. At the Save the Chimps sanctuary, workers have resorted to using drones to deliver food and blankets to the over 200 rescued chimpanzees. While all chimpanzees are safe in elevated care houses, the facility is only accessible by large off-road vehicles, as floodwaters have rendered golf carts, typically used for deliveries, inoperable. An overflowing canal is preventing the floodwaters from receding, posing significant challenges for staff to access the property and carry out their duties.

Fort Pierce Chimp Sanctuary Relies on Tractors and Drones Amid Persistent Floodwaters

Fort Pierce Chimp Sanctuary Relies on Tractors and Drones Amid Persistent Floodwaters

The Save the Chimps sanctuary in Fort Pierce, Florida, is facing significant operational challenges due to persistent floodwaters that have covered much of its 150-acre property for five days. The flooding, caused by heavy rain and an overflowing Header Canal, has made it difficult for staff to access the sanctuary and care for over 200 rescued chimpanzees. While the chimpanzees are safe in care houses located at higher elevations on their islands, staff mobility is severely restricted. The sanctuary is currently relying on tractors, trailers, and large off-road vehicles for access, with a donated swamp buggy recently breaking down. Golf carts used for transporting food and supplies are also out of service, and a staff member's truck became stuck in a sinkhole. In one instance, food was delivered to a chimp by drone.

Brevard County Experiences Historic Rainfall and Widespread Flooding

Brevard County Experiences Historic Rainfall and Widespread Flooding

A slow-moving weather system has dumped over two feet of rain in parts of Brevard County, Florida, triggering widespread flooding and flash flood emergencies across Central Florida and the Treasure Coast. Preliminary National Weather Service reports indicate that areas like Grant-Valkaria, Malabar, and Palm Bay received nearly 25 inches of rain. The heaviest rainfall occurred on Sunday, November 1, and Monday, November 2, with southern Brevard County bearing the brunt of the storm. The National Weather Service in Melbourne reported rainfall estimates of 16 to 22 inches across southern Brevard County by Monday afternoon. This historic rainfall has not only caused immediate street and neighborhood flooding but has also led to prolonged flooding concerns along the St. Johns River. Excessive rainfall in the upper St. Johns River basin is sending a significant volume of water northward, causing river levels to rise. As of Thursday, November 5, flood warnings remain in effect at multiple river forecast locations...

St. Johns River Under Flood Threat Following Over 22 Inches of Rainfall in Brevard County, Florida

St. Johns River Under Flood Threat Following Over 22 Inches of Rainfall in Brevard County, Florida

The St. Johns River in Central Florida is under a significant flood threat, days after parts of Brevard County received over 22 inches of rainfall. Areas like Grant-Valkaria and Malabar recorded more than two feet of rain, leading to widespread flooding. Despite the cessation of heavy rainfall, runoff continues to flow into the region's drainage systems, retention ponds, and canals, eventually making its way to the St. Johns River Basin. Due to the river's slow flow—dropping less than 30 feet over its 300-mile length—water moves downstream very gradually. This characteristic means that elevated water levels and potential flooding along the St. Johns River could persist for an extended period, even after the initial storms have passed.

Strong El Niño Expected to Bring Increased Flood Risk and Severe Weather to Florida

Strong El Niño Expected to Bring Increased Flood Risk and Severe Weather to Florida

Brevard County, Florida, recently experienced severe flash flooding that resulted in two fatalities and significant damage to homes and infrastructure. This event is believed to be an early indicator of what could be a challenging fall and winter for Florida due to a strengthening El Niño. According to Emily Powell, Florida State Climatologist at Florida State University, this El Niño is projected to become 'very strong,' potentially surpassing all previous El Niños on record since 1950 in terms of strength. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) describes El Niño as a significant climate driver characterized by warmer water temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific. This phenomenon influences global weather patterns, including shifting the Pacific jet stream, which is expected to bring more winter storms and heavier rainfall to California and the southern United States, including Florida.

East Coast Braces for Storms, Flooding & Evacuations

East Coast Braces for Storms, Flooding & Evacuations

A massive storm is sweeping across the East Coast, prompting evacuation alerts for over 120 million Americans across 23 states. Heavy rainfall began Thursday morning, causing flash flooding in areas like Copperhill, Tennessee, and McCaysville, Georgia, where a state of emergency has been declared. Rainfall is expected to continue through Saturday, with dangerous flooding forecasted for coastal cities in the Northeast. Cooler air and rain are also predicted to impact the Great Lakes, mid-Atlantic, Appalachians, and New England regions. Cities such as New York, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia, which have experienced dry weather recently, are expected to see showers and thunderstorms. Flood warnings remain active in Florida, where the St. Johns River near Cocoa has reached moderate flood stage.

Florida Father Dies in Flash Flood After Desperate FaceTime Call to Wife

Florida Father Dies in Flash Flood After Desperate FaceTime Call to Wife

Joshua Bennett, a 34-year-old father of four from Palm Bay, Florida, died after his vehicle became trapped in flash floodwaters in Brevard County. The incident occurred on Monday following heavy rainfall. According to WESH 2 News, Bennett had left his home to buy coffee when he encountered the rising floodwaters on San Filippo Drive. His wife, Stacy Petit Bennett, recounted receiving a desperate FaceTime call from him, during which he expressed panic as his truck was submerged. She urged him to break a window before the call abruptly disconnected. Stacy Petit Bennett then called 911 and spent hours attempting to get help for her husband. Bennett was one of two fatalities reported during the flooding in Brevard County; the other victim was 78-year-old Archie Richards, found in his vehicle.

U.S. Flooding Events Cause Hundreds of Millions in Losses, Aon Reports

U.S. Flooding Events Cause Hundreds of Millions in Losses, Aon Reports

Recent widespread flooding across several U.S. states has resulted in hundreds of millions of dollars in economic and insured losses, according to a report from Aon. From October 31 to November 2, Arizona and Colorado experienced significant rainfall due to a low-pressure system originating in the Pacific Northwest. Flagstaff, Arizona, recorded 3.37 inches of rain on November 1, marking its third-highest daily total since records began, with a two-day total of 5.15 inches. Concurrently, heavy rainfall and flash flooding impacted the Florida peninsula from November 1-3, with southern Brevard County receiving over 24 inches of rain in approximately 24 hours. Additionally, storm clusters on November 4 affected the southern Appalachians, particularly Fannin and Gilmer counties in Georgia, where rainfall rates reached 2 to 3 inches per hour, accumulating 5 to 11 inches in total. The National Weather Service issued flash flood emergencies for several areas in Georgia, including McCaysville and Copperhill. Much o...

El Niño Strengthens, Expected to Bring Record Rainfall and Severe Weather Risks to U.S.

El Niño Strengthens, Expected to Bring Record Rainfall and Severe Weather Risks to U.S.

The current El Niño event is intensifying and is projected to become a 'very strong' or 'super' El Niño, potentially surpassing all recorded events since 1950. This climate pattern, characterized by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific, significantly influences global weather. According to Emily Powell, Florida State Climatologist at Florida State University, this El Niño is expected to reach its peak strength within the next month or so. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicates an over 83% chance of it becoming a 'strong-to-very-strong' El Niño. Its effects are already being observed, with Brevard County, Florida, experiencing a 'once-in-1,000-year flood' that resulted in two deaths and significant damage to homes. This event saw over 20 inches of rain in less than 24 hours in some areas. The strengthening El Niño is anticipated to shift the Pacific jet stream southward, leading to increased rainfall and potential severe weather across the southe...

U-Haul Offers 30 Days Free Storage to Florida Flood Victims Following Historic Rains

U-Haul Offers 30 Days Free Storage to Florida Flood Victims Following Historic Rains

U-Haul Co. of Eastern Florida is providing 30 days of free self-storage and U-Box container use to residents affected by historic flooding in central and eastern Florida. Heavy rains, which began on November 1, 2026, have resulted in up to 20 inches of rainfall in some areas, leading to widespread road closures and over 60 water rescues in Brevard County alone. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for 14 counties. Many homes and businesses have sustained water damage, making access to dry and secure storage solutions critical for affected communities. The offer applies to new self-storage and U-Box rentals and is subject to availability at participating U-Haul locations. Delivery of U-Box containers is available for a modest fee.

Flash Floods Devastate Lamplighter Village, Brevard County Initiates Recovery Efforts

Flash Floods Devastate Lamplighter Village, Brevard County Initiates Recovery Efforts

Lamplighter Village in Brevard County, Florida, experienced catastrophic flash flooding on Tuesday, leaving widespread damage and debris. Residents reported water levels reaching several steps up their homes, with some using paddleboards to navigate the floodwaters. The intensity of the flooding was described by many as unprecedented, surpassing the impact of previous major hurricanes. Personal belongings were carried across the community by the strong currents, including a kayak that floated from one side of the complex to the other. High-water rescue crews were deployed to evacuate neighbors during the event. As cleanup efforts commence, Brevard County officials are urging affected residents to complete an online form to report flood damage.

Railroad Retirement Board Provides Guidance for Brevard Flood Victims on Benefit Replacement

Railroad Retirement Board Provides Guidance for Brevard Flood Victims on Benefit Replacement

The Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) is assisting individuals affected by the Brevard flood in replacing lost or damaged benefit-related documents. For those receiving Railroad Retirement Board benefits, the RRB has provided a direct contact number, 1-877-772-5772 (TTY 1-312-751-4701), to facilitate the replacement process. This guidance comes as part of broader efforts to help residents of Brevard County, Florida, recover from the November 2026 flood, which caused widespread damage and loss of important personal documents. The RRB's involvement is crucial for railroad workers and their beneficiaries who rely on these federal retirement benefits. The agency's role is to administer and pay these benefits for individuals who worked in the rail industry after 1936, and it also handles sick pay issues, including coordinating supplemental benefits with employers. The RRB is generally restricted from disclosing individual information without proper authorization, emphasizing the need for direct contact from affec...