Heavy rains and possible flooding will hit South Florida this weekend

Meteorologists are still unsure whether a tropical depression or storm will form in the Gulf of Mexico; However, one thing is becoming increasingly certain: it will rain heavily in South Florida.

The system, which is being monitored by the National Hurricane Center, is bringing showers and thunderstorms that are expected to affect much of Florida, including regions recently devastated by Hurricane Helene.

READ MORE: A system may not form in the Caribbean, but Florida could still feel its heavy rains

Regardless of the system's formation, which is expected to occur early to mid-next week, the National Weather Service in Miami said heavy rains are expected, particularly in South Florida.

Predicted rainfall levels will fluctuate over the coming days as the disruption is still some way off. As of Friday morning, the greatest threat of rain is expected to begin on Sunday and continue through the middle of next week. 3 to 7 inches of rain is forecast for the region, with as much as 10 to 12 inches in some areas.

“Unfortunately, forecast details (namely, the timing and location of maximum precipitation) remain unclear beyond this general threat of heavy rainfall…” the National Weather Service said.

The weather service forecast shows the chance of rain and thunderstorms is over 70% starting Sunday.

Meteorologists are already warning that much of South Florida is quite saturated with water after several months of the “rainy season.” This means that just a few inches of rainfall could be enough to cause significant flash flooding in areas with poor drainage.

Forecasters said the expected heavy rains would have a positive effect: The heavy cloud cover and rain mean high temperatures will remain in the low to mid 80s, a change from recent oppressive heat.