Tropical Storm Debby continues its slow and destructive trek across North Florida and into the southeastern United States. As of 5:00 PM Eastern Time on August 5, 2024, the storm is centered just southeast of Valdosta, Georgia.
The storm’s impact has already been severe, with multiple fatalities and significant disruptions. A truck driver died in the Tampa area after his vehicle flipped and fell into the water. In Levy County, a 13-year-old boy was killed by a fallen tree, and a car crash in Dixie County resulted in the deaths of a woman and a boy. Additionally, over 300,000 customers remain without power, and air travel has been heavily disrupted with numerous flight cancellations.
Debby is currently positioned near Valdosta, Georgia, and is moving slowly northeastward. The storm’s slow pace is contributing to prolonged and heavy rainfall, exacerbating the flooding risk. Flash flood emergencies are in effect for several regions, including Suwannee County and the Lake City area in Florida.
The storm is expected to bring significant rainfall across the Southeast. Coastal Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina are particularly at risk, with rainfall totals potentially reaching 15 to 20 inches in some areas. Cities like Savannah, Beaufort, Hilton Head, Charleston, and Myrtle Beach could see record-setting rainfall, leading to catastrophic flooding.
The National Weather Service has highlighted a high risk of excessive rainfall through Saturday, with areas marked in pink from Wilmington, North Carolina, to Savannah, Georgia, under the highest threat. Flash flooding could cause significant loss of life and property damage, making travel hazardous and potentially isolating communities.
Debby is projected to meander off the coast of South Carolina through Thursday and possibly into Friday before accelerating northward. Each day, the risk areas for flash flooding and heavy rainfall will shift:
Monday Night to Tuesday Morning: Highest risk extends across coastal Georgia, including Savannah, and southern South Carolina, including Beaufort and Hilton Head.
Tuesday Morning to Wednesday Morning: The risk area expands northward, affecting Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and southeastern North Carolina.
Wednesday to Thursday: Northeast South Carolina and extreme southern North Carolina will be most at risk.
Thursday to Friday: The risk extends into central North Carolina, including Raleigh, and parts of south-central Virginia.
The flooding from Debby could result in widespread structural damage, requiring evacuations and potentially necessitating rescues. Flooded and closed roads will hamper travel and access to certain areas. Additionally, there is a risk of roads being eroded from underneath, making driving extremely dangerous.
Tropical storm warnings remain in effect for northeastern Florida, including St. Augustine and Jacksonville, and southeastern Georgia, including Savannah and Charleston.
As Tropical Storm Debby continues its path, it is imperative for residents in the affected areas to stay vigilant and heed local authorities’ warnings. The combination of heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and potential storm surges presents significant dangers. Ensure you have multiple ways to receive emergency alerts, and prioritize your safety and that of your loved ones.
We at the Canadian News Hub urge everyone in the storm’s path to take all necessary precautions and stay informed through reliable sources. Our thoughts are with those impacted by the storm, and we hope for everyone’s safety during this challenging time.
Esra Sahin