South Florida gas stations left without fuel due to flooding 

Gas stations in South Florida have been running short of fuel after the state was hit with a historic downpour last week that left large parts of Miami-Dade and Broward counties under water.

Many gas stations in the area are displaying signs stating that they have run out of gas or are wrapping the gas pump handles with plastic to indicate that those pumps are empty.

In the few gas stations that still have fuel left, lines of cars have been forming and sneaking onto the streets, as desperate Floridians seek to fill up their tanks.

"It’s like lines back to back, each entryway lines are miles and miles long," a driver told NBC6.

Officials have promised that relief is on its way and are urging people not to panic. “Petroleum trucks continue to load fuel at Port Everglades for delivery to gas stations throughout Florida,” said a statement from Port Everglade officials, adding that fuel deliveries are expected to take place throughout Monday.

"The public is encouraged to remain patient and not rush to the pumps since the port has ample fuel supply. As more of the privately owned petroleum companies become operational, deliveries will continue to increase,” the statement continued.

Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levina Cava chimed in, saying that the county is working to ensure gas is being delivered as fast as possible to gas stations that need it. 

The gas shortages are due to a once-in-a-half-century torrential downpour that hit the state last week and caused severe flooding in many neighborhoods. Some areas of South Florida saw between 10 and 14 inches of rain last week, prompting the National Weather Service (NWS) to issue flash flood warnings. 

“This is a PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION,” the NWS warned last week. “Move to higher ground now! This is an extremely dangerous and life-threatening situation. Do not attempt to travel unless you are fleeing an area subject to flooding or under an evacuation order.”