Funnel cloud seen from I-95 in Deerfield Beach. Strong storm system with heavy rain is moving north

A funnel cloud was sighted over Interstate 95 just after noon Friday as a severe storm system moved through northern Broward County. More stormy weather — with the potential for flooding — could be on the way this afternoon and into the night, according to forecasters.

“We already saw the reports of the funnel cloud,” National Weather Service meteorologist Ana Torres-Vazquez said. “This could happen again with some other cells if they strengthen sufficiently. And we also cannot discount some damaging wind gusts.”

All of South Florida needs to be alert into the evening.

“Some of the storms could linger past 7 or 8 [p.m.],” Torres-Vazquez said.

Lightning is a concern, and hail remains a possibility.

“The main concern really with these is that really heavier rainfall component, and then with that the localized flooding,” Torres-Vazquez said.

Some of the storms have dumped 1 to 3 inches of rain per hour, and that becomes a problem if it occurs in areas that saw heavy rain about 2 or 3 a.m. when overnight storm cells hit.

The National Weather Service/Miami issued a special warning for Coral Springs, Pompano Beach, Sunrise, Deerfield Beach and Boca Raton about the storm system, which is accompanied by torrential rains and high winds. The system is moving to the northeast. The warning expired at 1 p.m., but a flood advisory remains in effect until 2:30 p.m.

As of 12:30 p.m., there are no reports of the funnel cloud touching down and becoming a tornado.

This is a developing story, so check back for updates. Click here to have breaking news alerts sent directly to your inbox.