The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for Tallahassee and surrounding areas, warning residents about the risk of heavy rainfall and potential flash flooding until 8 p.m. on Monday evening. Forecasters indicated that while temperatures will be mild, ranging in the mid to upper 80s due to cloud cover and rain, the area may experience significant rainfall.
The Flood Watch is the result of a “very moist airmass” that is expected to linger over the region, impacting a wide area, including parts of Southwest and South Central Georgia, the western Florida Big Bend, the Florida Panhandle, and Southeastern Alabama. Although southeast Alabama and Georgia face the greatest threat of heavy rainfall, Tallahassee could see between 3 to 5 inches of rain, with isolated pockets potentially receiving as much as 8 inches.
Forecasters warned that with the forecasted high rain rates, quick accumulations of water are likely, which could lead to several local impacts such as urban flooding, particularly affecting roadways, parking lots, and low-lying residential areas. Residents are reminded that storm drains might become clogged with debris, compounding the flooding risk. Additionally, the heavy rain could lead to the flooding of rivers, creeks, and other low-lying areas, as well as potential power outages caused by downed trees and power lines.
Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and avoid driving on flooded roads, following the safety advice from the National Weather Service: “Turn around, don’t drown!” The forecast currently rates the excessive rainfall risk as slight, indicating a 15–39% chance of flash flooding, which, while moderate, still has the potential to cause significant disruptions.
As the weather unfolds, it is essential for the community to remain informed and take necessary precautions. Maintaining a proactive approach can help mitigate some of the adverse effects of the anticipated rainfall.