King tides are bringing elevated water levels and coastal flooding to South Florida this week. The National Weather Service’s Miami office says a coastal flood advisory covers coastal Miami-Dade through 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30. The advisory warns of flooding in lots, parks and roads, with isolated road closures possible: NWS coastal flood advisory.


A Miami Herald report published Oct. 26 said Aventura Mall’s parking garage warns drivers that its lower levels may flood. The Herald found that parking operators across South Florida often post warnings or use ticket terms to limit liability, but its report did not identify who operates the mall garage: Miami Herald report.


King tides are forecast through Oct. 31, then return Nov. 5, according to Miami-Dade County’s tide calendar: Miami-Dade tide calendar.


Who pays for flood damage


Aaron Alamary, president of parking company TruPark USA, told the Herald that drivers accept a transfer of liability when they pull a parking ticket. The Herald reported that the Aventura Mall garage posts flood warnings on its lower levels; it did not report that TruPark operates the mall garage.


State Farm spokesperson Michal Brower told the Herald that comprehensive auto coverage protects drivers from flood damage, while liability-only coverage does not cover damage to a driver’s own car. Policyholders should check their policy terms with their insurer.


Flood safety


The National Weather Service advises people not to drive or walk through floodwater. Check current alerts and avoid low-lying roads and parking areas during high tides.