The southeastern United States remained on high alert on Saturday as Tropical Storm Isaias, which has weakened to a post-tropical cyclone, continued its northward movement after making landfall on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

The system, which was earlier classified as a hurricane, brought intense rainfall and strong winds to Florida, causing flooding in several communities and raising fears of tornado formation across the region.

According to the U.S. National Hurricane Center, despite weakening, Isaias remains a significant threat due to its capacity to produce life-threatening flash flooding, heavy downpours and isolated tornadoes as it tracks further inland.

In Florida, emergency officials reported flooded streets, stranded vehicles and temporary closure of businesses in affected areas. In some locations, trucks and cars were seen overturned and submerged as drainage systems were overwhelmed by the volume of rainfall.

The National Weather Service has issued flood watches and tornado warnings for parts of Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina, urging residents to remain vigilant and follow evacuation guidance where necessary.

State emergency management agencies have activated response teams and are closely monitoring rivers, creeks and low-lying neighborhoods that are vulnerable to rising water levels. Residents have been advised to avoid driving through flooded roads and to secure loose outdoor items.

Power utility companies have also placed their crews on standby in anticipation of possible power outages caused by fallen trees and strong wind gusts associated with the storm.

Forecasters noted that the storm is expected to continue moving northward over the next 24 hours, with its effects potentially reaching parts of the Mid-Atlantic. They warned that even after the storm passes, residual flooding could persist in some areas.

Authorities have reassured the public that they are working to restore normalcy and have urged citizens to stay tuned to official weather updates and emergency broadcasts for safety instructions.