Tropical Storm Debby has entered the U.S. Southeast, bringing the risk of prolonged torrential downpours and flooding after impacting Florida with heavy rain and strong winds.
The storm has resulted in at least five fatalities and has caused flooding in historic Savannah, Georgia, and Charleston, South Carolina, as well as other areas along the Atlantic Coast. Authorities in northern coastal states are closely monitoring the storm’s movement.
Debby made landfall on the Gulf Coast of Florida as a Category 1 hurricane on Monday. While it is categorized based on wind speeds, meteorologists highlight the storm’s rainfall capacity as particularly dangerous.
Here’s the Latest:
Latest advisory from the National Hurricane Center
The center of Tropical Storm Debby is currently located about 10 miles east of Savannah, Georgia, moving east-northeast at 3 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center’s 5 p.m. advisory on Tuesday.
The storm has maximum sustained winds up to 40 mph with tropical storm-force winds extending up to 205 miles from its center.
Debby’s center is off the Georgia coast and is anticipated to move back inland over South Carolina on Thursday, posing a significant rainfall threat to the region.
Parts of Virginia and other states in the Northeast could experience heavy rainfall and potential flooding through Saturday.
Virginia governor declares state of emergency
Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin has declared a state of emergency in anticipation of the effects of Tropical Storm Debby, mobilizing resources and equipment to respond to the storm’s impact.
The storm is expected to begin impacting Virginia on Wednesday evening, with forecasts predicting tropical storm force winds, heavy rain, and severe flooding across the state.
Firefighters assist residents in flooded Savannah neighborhood
In the Tremont Park neighborhood of west Savannah, firefighters used boats to evacuate residents stranded by floodwaters and delivered supplies to those in need.
Michael Jones, a resident, described the overwhelming floodwaters that entered his home and praised the firefighters for their assistance.
South Carolina governor warns of prolonged flooding threat
South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster cautioned residents about the potential for continued flooding as Tropical Storm Debby slowly moves out to sea while remaining a significant rainmaker.
Authorities are monitoring the situation closely, particularly in areas that experienced devastating floods during previous hurricanes.
Flooding threat extends to Florida
Officials warned that the water from Georgia and South Carolina could lead to serious flooding downstream in Florida for an extended period of time.
The potential for major flooding in parts of Florida, particularly along rivers like St. Marys, Suwannee, and Santa Fe, could result in road closures and property damage.
Savannah largely spared major flooding
Savannah, Georgia, has so far avoided significant flooding despite heavy rainfall from Tropical Storm Debby. Authorities expressed relief at the city not experiencing the anticipated extreme rainfall amounts.
Significant flooding was reported in some neighborhoods, prompting evacuations and relief efforts. Cleanup efforts are ongoing in flooded areas.
Charleston prepares for potential flooding and strong winds
Charleston, South Carolina, has implemented emergency measures to mitigate the impacts of Tropical Storm Debby, including distributing sandbags and closing off certain areas prone to flooding.
The city remains vigilant as the storm continues to pose threats of flooding and strong winds.
Emergency declaration for Georgia approved
President Joe Biden approved an emergency declaration for Georgia, allowing for disaster assistance to be mobilized to aid in the aftermath of Hurricane Debby.
The declaration authorizes FEMA to coordinate evacuations, shelters, and resources to protect lives and property.
Experts monitor Debby’s strength
Tropical Storm Debby continues to be monitored as it interacts with ocean waters off the Georgia and South Carolina coast. The storm may regain strength before moving back inland, potentially leading to increased rainfall and flooding risks.
Officials emphasize the need for continued vigilance as Debby progresses through the region.
