"Once in every 1,000-2,000 years": Storm Swamps Fort Lauderdale with 25 Inches of Rain

​Fort Lauderdale, a city known for its sunny beaches and tropical climate, was hit by a rare and catastrophic storm that dumped a record-breaking 25 inches of rain in just two days.
​   According to weather experts, such an event is likely to occur only once in every 1,000-2,000 years, and the extent of the damage caused by the storm is still being assessed. In this article, we will take a closer look at this historic weather event and its impact on the city of Fort Lauderdale.

   The storm, which began on May 24, 2021, was caused by a slow-moving low pressure system that formed over the Gulf of Mexico.
   As the system drifted across the state of Florida, it collided with a cold front, which caused the formation of thunderstorms and heavy rain. Over the next two days, the storm unleashed an epic deluge on Fort Lauderdale, flooding streets, homes, and businesses alike.
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   The rainfall broke a single-day record of 9.38 inches set during Hurricane King in 1950. It also shattered the city's previous two-day record of 18.99 inches set in 2017 during Hurricane Harvey.
   The storm caused severe flooding across the city, with some neighborhoods reporting water levels as high as six feet. Cars were stranded on roads, and emergency crews had to rescue dozens of stranded residents.
   The impact of the storm was felt beyond the city limits of Fort Lauderdale. Several other cities in South Florida, including Miami and West Palm Beach, also experienced heavy rainfall and flooding.
   The National Weather Service issued multiple flood warnings and watches for the region, urging residents to take precautions and avoid driving through floodwaters.
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   The storm prompted local officials to declare a state of emergency in Fort Lauderdale, allowing the city to access resources and assistance from the state and federal government.
   Cleanup efforts were immediately initiated, with emergency crews working to clear debris, pump out flooded areas, and rescue stranded residents. Many homeowners and business owners in the affected areas faced significant damage to their properties.

The storm also disrupted air travel in and out of Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, with dozens of flights being canceled or delayed due to the weather conditions. The airport's runways were inundated by the heavy rainfall, forcing officials to close them temporarily.
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   While the immediate impact of the storm was significant, the long-term effects are still being assessed. The city of Fort Lauderdale will need to undertake significant efforts to repair and rebuild the damage caused by the storm.
   Experts warn that such extreme weather events are becoming increasingly common due to climate change, and cities must take proactive measures to prepare for and mitigate their impact.
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   In conclusion, the historic storm that swamped Fort Lauderdale with 25 inches of rain is a stark reminder of the power of nature and the need to prepare for extreme weather events.
​   Fortunately, the city has taken proactive measures to mitigate the impact of such storms in the future, including the installation of flood control infrastructure, emergency response plans, and public education programs.
   While the storm caused significant damage, the resilience and dedication of the city's residents and emergency crews offer hope for a brighter future.