Flooding rain drenches Highlands County before cooler, drier fall air arrives

Persistent downpours dumped more than a foot of rain across parts of Highlands County on Monday, triggering an active flood watch until 3 p.m. as emergency officials monitor rising water levels.Highlands County flood watchA flood watch remains in effect across Highlands County until 3 p.m. Monday after localized rainfall totals topped 12 inches. Showers and soaking rain bands will persist across central Florida neighborhoods through early afternoon before drying conditions develop from mid-afternoon onward.A strong cold front will push through the state late Thursday into early Friday, sweeping away the tropical moisture. That boundary will usher in much drier air, noticeable drops in humidity and noticeably cooler morning temperatures across the region starting this weekend and continuing into next week.Lingering road impactsAuthorities have not confirmed the full extent of structural damage or announced specific road closures across Highlands County. Officials have also not yet detai