Bad weather temporarily halts Ultra
As forecasters warned much of South Florida could see a dangerous mix of severe weather Friday night, Miami’s Ultra Music Festival temporarily shut down for safety.
More than 100,000 people were expected to dance this weekend to the beat of electronic music at Ultra, an annual, three-day party at Bayfront Park in downtown Miami.
South Florida was warned by the National Weather Service to watch for tornadoes, hail and flooding for much of Friday night.
All of Miami-Dade and
Monroe counties were under a tornado watch until 3 a.m. Saturday, the National Weather Service said. Forecasters said there could be a couple of tornadoes, hail the size of quarters and scattered gusts up to 70 mph.
Eastern Miami-Dade and Broward, including Miami, North Miami, Hollywood and Hallandale Beach, were under a special weather statement until 9:30 p.m. Pea-sized hail were expected in those regions.
HOW MUCH RAIN IS EXPECTED?
Miami-Dade and Broward counties are under a flood watch through Saturday evening.
Rainfall totals of two to four inches are estimated across the region, but five or more inches of rain is possible in some areas in the southern half of Miami-Dade.
WHAT ABOUT THE WIND?
Gusty winds are anticipated with 20-30 mph sustained winds and gusts of up to 70 mph through Saturday afternoon.
A wind advisory is in effect until Saturday evening for areas closest to the coast.
Objects that are outdoors should be secured and caution should be taken if driving.
BEWARE OF COASTAL HAZARDS
Those planning to go to the beach or hop on a boat might have to reconsider their plans.
Dangerous marine conditions were expected starting Friday. Conditions should gradually improve early next week as winds and seas subside.
The risk of rip currents will remain high into next week.
WHEN WILL DOWNPOURS CEASE?
The weather is forecast to improve Sunday and into next week with dry conditions, gradually subsiding winds and seasonable temperatures.
Omar Rodríguez Ortiz: