Monroe County Emergency Management Monitoring Tropical Depression; Keys are Outside Forecast Cone, But Heavy Rainfall and Gusty Winds Expected

MARATHON – Monroe County Emergency Management is monitoring Tropical Depression #3, which formed near the Yucatan Peninsula. Heavy rainfall and gusty winds are expected across the Keys, despite the area being well outside of the forecast cone, according to Sunday’s 11:30 a.m. advisory that was issued by the National Weather Service in Key West.

The depression is expected to move north and then turn northeast over the next 36 hours – moving across the northern Florida Peninsula on Tuesday. A Tropical Storm Warning is now in effect for the west coast of Florida from Indian River to Englewood. The warning does NOT include the Florida Keys.

In Monroe County, protective actions are not being issued at this time, Monroe County Emergency Management Director Irene Toner said.

“But we are encouraging everyone to use caution to any windy and wet road conditions when traveling,” Toner said. “It would be advisable not to venture out during the heaviest downpour. It would also be helpful to check on your elderly neighbors.”

In the Keys, sustained winds are expected to remain below tropical storm force for the duration of the event. But occasional squalls will produce periods of heavy rain and gusty winds, especially tonight through Monday night. Wind gust of 40 to 50 mph will be possible in the stronger storms. Heavy rains could result in localized minor flooding of secondary roadways, the advisory said.

The greatest impacts are expected to be in the Lower Keys. Coastal flooding is a low risk, but wave run-up and splashing will affect low, exposed coastal streets along the south shores of the islands. Higher than normal tides are expected on the bay side of Key Largo, mainly Monday night and Tuesday.

There is a low risk – mainly Sunday afternoon through Monday morning – of isolated tornadoes and waterspouts.

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