Tropical Storm Warning: Rainfall, Winds Expected Saturday Night

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FL — A tropical storm warning is in effect for portions of southeastern Florida as Tropical Storm Eta approaches the state, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Miami-Dade County will experience “extensive rainfall and gusty winds” starting as early as Saturday night, said Mayor Carlos Gimenez at a Saturday morning press conference. The county could see up to 10 inches of rain through Tuesday morning and “sustained tropical storm-force winds 30 to 60 mph” starting Sunday afternoon, he added. The worst weather conditions aren’t expected to start until later on Sunday.

The county declared a state-of-emergency Friday night. Officials also announced on Friday that they would likely start locking down all drawbridges on the Miami River and the Intercoastal Waterway Sunday morning ahead of the higher winds.

Because of ground saturation from recent rainstorms, “flooding is a major concern, especially in low-lying areas,” Gimenez said.

The county will open an evacuation center for residents living in mobile homes and low-lying areas, and others who need refuge at 2 p.m. on Saturday. This evacuation center will be set up at Gate 2 of The Fairgrounds, which is located at 10901 Coral Way in Miami. Those staying at The Fairgrounds should bring necessities, including blankets, pillows, medicine and required facial coverings.

Bus pick-up will be provided to those living in mobile home parks starting Saturday afternoon, Gimenez said. Residents can call 3-1-1 to learn more about this service.

All residents should secure objects that winds could blow around, such as garbage carts, patio furniture, garden tools and toys. He also asked residents to avoid putting out yard waste that could clog the county’s stormwater system.

The county's COVID-19 testing sites have closed and will remain closed until the storm passes and conditions are safe to reopen. They likely won’t reopen until Tuesday or Wednesday, Gimenez said. “It depends on the storm and the flooding.”

According to the Miami-Dade County Public Schools website, the district “is closely monitoring Tropical Storm Eta for any potential impact this weather system may have on school operations.”