Coastal roads in Miami-Dade and Broward counties remain at risk of flooding after unusually high king tides pushed saltwater into streets and neighborhoods Tuesday, Oct. 27.

The National Weather Service's Oct. 28 alert keeps a coastal flood warning in effect until 8 p.m. Wednesday, followed by a coastal flood advisory through 8 p.m. Thursday. The alert covers coastal Miami-Dade and Broward counties.

High water reaches roads

The Miami Herald reported flooding on major roads and around businesses in Miami Beach and Fort Lauderdale. Its report described Tuesday's water level at Miami's Virginia Key tide gauge as the highest recorded there outside a hurricane since the gauge was installed in 1994.

That is a station-specific comparison, not a measurement of flooding on every South Florida street. The Herald reported that Hurricane Irma in 2017 still holds the gauge's overall high-water record.

Both Miami and Fort Lauderdale registered water levels about 2.5 feet above high tide, according to the Herald. That figure describes the height of coastal water relative to a tidal benchmark, not a uniform depth of water on roads.

University of Miami researcher Brian McNoldy told the Herald that a nearby low-pressure system was pushing additional water toward the coast on top of the king tides.

Flood risk continues

The NWS forecast discussion issued Wednesday morning anticipated major coastal flooding around high tide that day and moderate flooding during high tides through at least Thursday or Friday. Improving winds do not mean the flooding risk ends immediately.

Miami-Dade County's 2026 king tide calendar identifies Oct. 24-30 as one of the fall's highest predicted tide periods. Wind, waves and other weather conditions can push actual water levels above astronomical tide predictions.

Avoid flooded streets

The NWS warns that roads may be closed and low-lying property may be inundated. Drivers should obey barricades and avoid water of unknown depth.

Miami-Dade County advises residents to move vehicles to higher ground before high tides and avoid walking or driving through floodwater. Saltwater can damage vehicles, and floodwater can conceal hazards.

Residents in Aventura, Sunny Isles Beach and Golden Beach should monitor NWS Miami and local government notices for changing conditions. Flood depth and timing vary by location.