Tropical Storm Debby has already claimed seven lives, including a man killed by a tornado in North Carolina. The storm continues to batter the southeastern United States with heavy rainfall and severe weather. Now centered over northeastern South Carolina, Debby is advancing north-northwest, leaving a trail of destruction that includes damaged homes and a demolished middle school. With sustained winds of about 40 mph, Debby is gradually weakening, but the danger remains high due to the extensive rainfall and flooding risks.
Debby was located approximately 880 miles southeast of Charlotte, North Carolina. The storm is slowly moving north-northwest at about 10 mph, with a predicted turn northward later in the day. By Friday morning, Debby is expected to accelerate northeastward, crossing the Mid-Atlantic states before reaching the northeastern United States by Friday night. The storm is forecast to enter Atlantic Canada by Saturday.
The most pressing concern associated with Debby is the heavy rainfall, which has already begun to impact large areas of North Carolina and Virginia. Rain bands extending from the Atlantic coast have caused significant flash flooding across parts of North Carolina, with the potential for the situation to worsen as the storm progresses. The Blue Ridge Mountains and surrounding areas are particularly vulnerable, with rainfall totals expected to reach 3 to 7 inches, and isolated areas could see as much as 10 inches.
The National Weather Service has issued flash flood warnings for much of central and northeastern South Carolina, as well as central North Carolina, with the threat expanding northward into Virginia and the Mid-Atlantic states.
In addition to flooding, there have been reports of tornadoes overnight and into Thursday morning. The highest risk for tornadoes currently exists along the North Carolina coast, the I-95 corridor, and into southeastern Virginia. A tornado watch is in effect for these areas, and additional watches are likely to be issued throughout the day.
Coastal flooding is another concern, with inundation levels of 1 to 3 feet above ground expected from Cape Fear to Ocracoke Inlet.
Rainfall totals in the Mid-Atlantic and northeastern United States are expected to range from 2 to 4 inches, with some locations receiving up to 6 inches.
The storm is expected to weaken into a tropical depression by Thursday evening, losing its tropical characteristics as it accelerates northeastward.
Residents in the affected areas are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. Those in flood-prone regions should be prepared to move to higher ground if flood warnings are issued.
As the situation develops, staying informed and prepared will be key to ensuring safety as Debby makes its way across the region.
Esra Sahin