Miami Beach officials say some of the new storm water pumps under construction across the city will be working by the time extreme high tides emerge later this fall.
Officials will give an update Wednesday on the construction. Upgrades to the city's storm water system to improve drainage and reduce neighborhood flooding are expected to cost up to $400 million.
The annual king tides are expected to be almost three inches higher than last year. The flooding can swamp South Beach's streets and intersections and stall traffic even on sunny days, and heavy rainfall makes the problems worse.
Miami Beach is a barrier island that sits just a few feet above sea level. City commissioners voted earlier this year to consider higher tides and rising sea levels when planning projects.
Miami Beach Prepares for Extreme High Tides
Copyright AP - Associated Press
