Latest Updates:
Hundreds Rescued from Flooded Homes in Sarasota, Florida
Approximately 500 people were rescued from flooded homes in Sarasota, Florida, a popular beach city, the Sarasota Police Department reported on Monday via social media.
Sarasota County Fire Chief David Rathbun stated in a social media update that they had received twice the predicted amount of rainfall.
In neighboring Manatee County, officials reported that 186 people were rescued from flood waters.
Manatee County’s public safety director, Jodie Fiske, referred to the weather event as unprecedented and emphasized that the safety of residents is the top priority.
Fatal Incident in South Georgia Due to Storm
A 19-year-old man was killed when a large tree fell onto a home in south Georgia as a result of heavy winds and rain associated with Hurricane Debby.
Authorities confirmed the incident, and the storm caused damage like downed power lines and damaged roofs in the area.
As of Monday evening, Hurricane Debby had top winds near 45 mph (75 kph) and was moving slowly to the northeast.
Charleston Announces Curfew
Charleston, South Carolina, officials announced a curfew starting at 11 p.m. due to the heaviest rainfall expected overnight from Tropical Storm Debby.
Police will block access to the peninsula, with only essential workers and emergency personnel being allowed. High-water vehicles will be on standby as needed.
The mayor stated that forecasters predicted 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 centimeters) of rain in Charleston overnight.
No Evacuations Planned in South Carolina
State officials in South Carolina do not plan any evacuations at the moment as Tropical Storm Debby approaches the state, with the biggest impact expected to be heavy rainfall causing potential floods.
Evacuations will be left to local leaders based on the situation in their specific areas.
State Emergency Management Division Director Kim Stenson emphasized that Debby is a statewide event that could lead to life-threatening floods.
Emergency Declaration Approved
President Joe Biden approved an emergency declaration for South Carolina following earlier approvals for Florida. Personnel from various departments are being deployed to support recovery efforts in the affected regions.
North Carolina also declared a state of emergency ahead of expected rainfall from Debby, causing flooding and power outages throughout the week.
Curfew in Savannah and Surrounding County
Savannah and Chatham County officials announced an overnight curfew due to worsening weather conditions, with the region expecting heavy rains from Debby.
Residents and officials are preparing for potentially historic rainfall and flooding, with storm surge projections adding to the concerns.
Precautionary measures are being taken to mitigate the impact of the storm.
Warnings Issued in Florida Amidst Debby’s Progress
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis cautioned about ongoing threats of flooding even as Tropical Storm Debby moved towards Georgia, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and preparedness.
Record-setting rainfall was expected to affect coastal regions in Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina as the storm progresses.
Incidents and Impacts of Debby Across States
Several incidents and fatalities were reported across different states as Debby made landfall and moved through the region, highlighting the destructive potential of the storm.
Debby weakened into a tropical storm, but the continued threat of flooding necessitated ongoing monitoring and response efforts.
Power Outages and Precautions
Thousands of customers were without power in Florida and Georgia, prompting warnings from officials to avoid flooded areas and not attempt to drive through hazardous conditions.
State and local authorities are working to restore power and ensure the safety of residents in affected areas.
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Correction: The power outage figures are attributed to PowerOutage.us, not PowerOutage.com.
