CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — Tropical Storm Debby caused heavy rainfall in coastal cities in Georgia and South Carolina, triggering tornadoes and flooding streets with waist-high waters on Tuesday. The storm is expected to bring record-breaking rainfall totals of up to 25 inches (64 centimeters).
Charleston and Savannah experienced significant rainfall, with up to a foot (30 centimeters) falling between the two cities in just over 24 hours. Due to the flooding, police closed all roads into Charleston’s downtown area. Many roads in the historic city were shut down because of flooding caused by rising sea levels.
As Debby continues its path, heavy rain is predicted to move north into areas of South Carolina and North Carolina that have previously experienced severe flooding.
In one Savannah neighborhood, firefighters used boats to evacuate residents and deliver supplies to those who chose to stay amidst waist-deep floodwaters. Michael Jones, a resident, described his ordeal of water entering his home, causing chaos and forcing him to seek refuge on his kitchen table until rescue arrived.
Officials in Charleston implemented a curfew and restricted access to essential workers and emergency personnel only to prevent unnecessary damage and high water rescues.
South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster acknowledged that Debby had not caused as much damage as initially anticipated but cautioned residents about the prolonged impact of the slow-moving storm.
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper declared a state of emergency, while Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin followed suit due to the significant challenges posed by Debby.
Debby’s center was located east of Savannah, inching along the coast, leading to concerns about its potential impact on the region. The storm is expected to meander back towards Charleston after moving out to sea.
The slow movement of the storm has exacerbated the heavy rainfall, with some areas receiving over a foot of rain. Tornadoes were reported in parts of the region, causing damage to homes and businesses.
As the heavy rain moved towards Myrtle Beach, precautions were taken, including closing businesses early to ensure the safety of staff and guests.
Debby made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane along the Gulf Coast of Florida, resulting in several fatalities and significant rescues after flooding in Sarasota and Manatee County.
The storm has left thousands without power in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina, with emergency declarations issued to provide federal disaster assistance.
Debby is expected to accelerate its speed and move towards North Carolina, Virginia, and potentially the Washington, D.C. area in the coming days.
Collins reported from Columbia, South Carolina. Associated Press contributors include Jeff Martin and Sudhin Thanawala in Atlanta; Freida Frisaro in Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Kate Payne in Tallahassee, Florida; and Ben Finley in Norfolk, Virginia. AP freelance photographer Stephen B. Morton contributed from Savannah, Georgia.
