S. Fla. Storms Cut Power, Delays Flights
MIAMI (CBS3)- Strong thunderstorm warnings were issued through South Florida shortly after 3:20 p.m. Thursday and brought with them heavy rain, high winds and some lightning.
The storms caused air traffic problems at Miami International Airport. As of 4:15 p.m. MIA reported 31 delayed flights, with 7 of those delayed arrivals and 24 delayed departures. There were no canceled flights, but 37 diverted flights were reported. While Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International airport reported 15 delayed flights.
According to the National Weather Service, meteorologists have detected a severe thunderstorm capable of producing damaging winds in excess of 60 miles per hour.
A severe thunderstorm warning was issued for northeastern Broward County and Southeastern Palm Beach County until 4 p.m.
The high winds and downed trees caused power to go out for thousands of South Floridians.
As of 3:15 p.m. Fort Lauderdale Fire-Rescue said they responded to multiple reports of weather related incidents, including a traffic signal hanging two feet from the street at the intersection of Broward Boulevard and Andrews Avenue.
Multiple downed power lines were also reported, including, 1200 N. Atlantic Blvd, 3100 W. Broward Blvd, 1239 SW 35th Avenue and NE 21 Street at Middle River Drive.
Just after 4 p.m. FPL said 18,000 customers were without power in Broward. Miami-Dade County reported a smaller number at 4,000 customers without power. Crews are working to have power fully restored to those residents by the end of the night.
