Alberto is expected to produce heavy rainfall and flash flooding over southern Florida and the Florida Keys. Rainfall and flooding potential will increase across the central Gulf Coast region and southeastern United States later this weekend and early next week when Alberto is expected to slow down after it moves inland. The center of the storm is expected to track northward through the Gulf of Mexico over the holiday weekend, to the west of the Florida peninsula.

Impacts to South Florida include heavy rainfall causing flooding, isolated tornadoes, and dangerous rip currents. Thunderstorms and flooding could occur as early as Friday with heavy rain showers possibly lasting until Tuesday.  Rainfall amounts could range from 3 – 6 inches with potential higher amounts in localized area.  In addition, the threat of rip currents will steadily increase along the Gulf coast from Florida westward over Memorial Day weekend.

The Miami-Dade County Office of Emergency Management will continue to provide updates on this weather system as it evolves.  Detailed information on this system can be found at www.nhc.noaa.gov. For forecast information specific to your area please visit http:/www./weather.gov/mfl.
Please remember:

• It is never safe to drive or walk into flood waters: Don't drive or walk around road barriers, or through large puddles. Hidden debris may be just under the surface that could hurt you or disable your car. 
• It is vital to know what to do if you are driving and hit a flooded road:  More than half of the deaths from flooding each year occur in vehicles. Turn around, don’t drown.
• Don’t underestimate the power of water: 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away a small car, while 2 feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles.
• Stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires: Electrocution is also a major killer in floods. Electrical current can travel through water. Report downed power lines to Florida Power and Light's customer service number at (305) 442-8770. 
• Do not play in standing water: If water is stagnant for extended periods, there is a potential for contamination. Playing or remaining in standing water should be avoided.
• Monitor media: Continue monitoring local media or verified social media platforms for the latest updates and advisories. Follow-us on Twitter @MiamiDadeEM.
• Knowing what to do before, during, and after a flood helps you increase your chances of survival and better protect your property and business: Visit Ready South Florida for tips on how to develop an emergency plan for your home and business, create an emergency kit and be informed during a disaster. The website is available in English, Spanish and Creole. 
• Rip currents are the leading surf hazards for all beachgoers: Rip currents can occur on any beach with breaking waves. Avoid swimming in beaches when rip current advisories are in effect. Beach safety is key. On all Florida beaches, a red flag warns of strong current and surf conditions, while a yellow flag indicates moderate conditions. A green flag means the surf is calm. 

Visit our website for additional flood safety tips. OEM is committed to working with its partners and the community to lessen the impact of disasters and potential catastrophic incidents. OEM accomplishes its mission through planning, response, and coordination of information and resources.