Fort Lauderdale and South Florida experienced torrential rainfall and widespread flooding.
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport closed due to the flooding and is expected to remain closed until at least noon Thursday.
Flights were halted on Wednesday due to heavy rain and windy conditions.
Roadways in and out of the airport became impassable.
Broward County schools announced closures for Thursday.
The National Weather Service declared a flash flood emergency for the area.
Rainfall rates of over 3 inches per hour were recorded, resulting in rainfall totals of 14 to 20 inches in some areas.
The mayor of Hollywood described the flooding as the most severe he has ever seen.
The city of Fort Lauderdale activated its Emergency Operations Center.
Videos and reports showed cars floating in water and people stuck for hours at the airport and on flooded roadways.