CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — Tropical Storm Debby is currently over the western Atlantic Ocean, taking a break before continuing to bring rain to the coastal Carolinas as it moves northward.
Debby is expected to strengthen again and head north towards the South Carolina coast for a second landfall late Wednesday or early Thursday, with the potential for tornadoes along the Carolinas and even into southeast Virginia on Thursday.
The slow-moving storm has already caused significant rainfall in coastal cities in Georgia and South Carolina, leading to tornadoes and widespread flooding. Some areas have seen over a foot of rain, with predictions of up to 25 inches in certain locations by the time the storm passes.
Cities like Charleston and Savannah have experienced severe flooding, with curfews in place and roads blocked. Due to rising sea levels, flooding in Charleston has become a regular occurrence.
As Debby hovers off the coast, heavy rain is expected to impact areas in South and North Carolina that have recently experienced significant flooding. Emergency evacuations have already been carried out in some communities.
In one Savannah neighborhood, firefighters had to use boats to evacuate residents as floodwaters rose rapidly, causing widespread damage and displacements.
North Carolina and Virginia have declared states of emergency in anticipation of further impacts from the storm, including strong winds, heavy rains, and potential flooding.
Debby is currently east of Savannah and moving slowly, bringing heavy rain that is leading to flooding in many areas along the coast. The storm’s slow movement is exacerbating the rainfall amounts, creating dangerous conditions across the region.
Green Pond in South Carolina has reported over 14 inches of rain, with widespread flooding and road closures in the region. In places like Charleston and Savannah, the amount of rain in a single day has surpassed monthly averages.
Tornadoes have also been reported, causing damage to homes and infrastructure in certain areas. Businesses and residents are being urged to take precautions and stay safe during this extreme weather event.
As Debby continues to move northwards, the potential for more rain and flooding remains high, impacting regions as far north as New York City. Emergency officials are warning residents to stay alert and be prepared for rapid changes in weather conditions.
The aftermath of the storm includes assessments of damage and potential ongoing flooding, with assistance being provided by federal agencies to the affected states. Debby is expected to move towards the Washington area by the weekend.
Collins reported from Columbia, South Carolina. 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; Susan Haigh in Hartford, Connecticut; Lisa Baumann in Bellingham, Washington; and freelance photographer Stephen B. Morton in Savannah, Georgia.