PHOTO VIA CITY OF DAYTONA BEACH GOVERNMENT FACEBOOK PAFE
Daytona Beach is dealing with widespread standing water this weekend as heavy rain and high tides combined to overwhelm local drainage systems. Nearly a foot of rain fell along parts of Florida’s east coast over the past few days, and the saturated ground left little capacity for runoff. Coastal areas of Volusia County, including much of Daytona Beach, saw water pooling in low-lying streets, parking lots, and residential zones.
City officials said the situation has been made worse by persistent onshore winds and elevated tides, which are pushing seawater into the drainage network and slowing the outflow of stormwater. Even brief downpours during high tide have caused water to rise quickly in flood-prone areas. Public works crews spent much of the weekend clearing storm drains and setting up barricades to close off submerged roadways.
Local emergency managers urged residents to avoid driving through flooded areas, warning that depth and current can be deceiving. Flood advisories remain in effect as high tides continue to coincide with rounds of scattered rain. Some coastal erosion has also been reported, and red flags are flying on area beaches due to strong rip currents and rough surf.
Forecasters expect the heaviest rainfall to taper off by late Sunday, though lingering moisture and elevated tides could keep standing water in place through early next week. The city plans to continue monitoring pump stations and drainage canals in an attempt to keep water levels manageable.
