Florida declares state of emergency amid deadly flooding

Severe flooding caused by a low-pressure system over the Gulf has resulted in at least two deaths and hundreds of rescues across several Florida counties. The deceased have been identified as Joshua Bennett, 34, and Archie Richards, 78.

Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency in seven counties: Brevard, DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands, Indian River, Martin, and St. Lucie. The declaration allows for the activation of the Florida National Guard and provides election supervisors with the authority to relocate polling stations if flooding interferes with voting.

In Palm Bay, Mayor Rob Medina described the situation as devastation, noting that some homes saw water levels reach 38 inches. Emergency crews used boats and high-water vehicles to rescue residents, including elderly individuals and those with mobility issues. In Brevard County, southern areas received up to two feet of rain, causing catastrophic damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure.

Other impacted areas include Palm Beach, St. Lucie, and Martin counties. In Sunrise, heavy rainfall left hundreds of vehicles stranded in parking lots near the Amerant Bank Arena and Sawgrass Mills Mall. Officials warn that flooding may persist for several days as water drains from the affected regions.