India, Nov. 3 -- Severe flooding across parts of Florida has forced election officials to relocate 18 polling sites ahead of Election Day, raising concerns about voting access as residents prepare to cast their ballots in several closely watched political contests.

According to the Florida Secretary of State's office, the affected polling locations are spread across Brevard, Highlands, Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, Palm Beach and St. Lucie counties. Voters will be directed to temporary alternatives, including community centres, town halls, church buildings and council chambers.

The changes were announced before polling stations opened at 7 a.m. ET on Tuesday, November 3, as authorities worked to ensure that flooding would not preven...