Tropical Storm Debby Brings Heavy Rainfall to Coastal Carolinas; Concerns Mount over Potential Flooding and Tornadoes

Tropical Storm Debby Descends on Coastal Carolinas Conveying Substantial Rainfall

In a parade of turbulent weather, the coastal Carolinas brace themselves as Tropical Storm Debby continues to trail a path of torrential rain. With prior intense rainfall sweetening coastal cities in Georgia and South Carolina, coastal cities prepare themselves for what is yet to come as the storm gradually inches forward at a speed of approximately 4 mph (6 kph).

Emerging Concerns

Inundating regions with more than a foot (30 centimeters) of rain, causing tornadoes and provoking waist-high floodwaters, Tropical Storm Debby presents a grave concern for areas that have already been hard hit by previous storms. Despite its drier core, the incessant rains are forecasted to expand from South Carolina to Vermont throughout the weekend. The storm, therefore, raises particular anxiety for southeastern North Carolina, a region devastated by Hurricane Matthew in 2016, followed by Hurricane Florence in 2018. Both storms caused numerous fatalities and incurred billions of dollars in damages.

National Weather Service Warnings

Raising widespread concerns, The National Weather Service has warned that up to 9 inches (23 centimeters) of rainfall is expected near Wilmington, North Carolina, a region that has already witnessed heavy overnight rains. Recent downpours in Charleston and Savannah, Georgia, demanded a curfew imposition in Charleston to control the flooding, which has been rising due to increasing sea levels.

Heavy Impact

With relentless rains assailing Savannah, firefighters were compelled to resort to boats to evacuate residents in some neighborhoods and deliver essential supplies to those who opted to stay. The storm has also caused several roads to be closed, avoided the need for water rescues, and stalled potential property damage by obstructing reckless drivers. The breadth of the storm’s impact is not limited to flooding. The storm has stirred up tornadoes, felled trees, and damaged several homes.

Far-Reaching Effects of the Storm

In an intriguing turn of events, Tropical Storm Debby has also augmented rainfall in Northern cities like New York, leading to street floods and stranding motorists, extending a flood watch till noon Wednesday for the city. Several thunderstorms have also swept most of New Jersey, resulting in moderate flooding and electrical blackouts in many regions, with rainfall reaching up to six inches in southern communities.

Affected Communities Brace for Possible Trouble

As Debby sets its course northward, communities stepping into the storm’s path are bracing for possible trouble. Maryland Governor Wes Moore, in anticipation of significant rains, winds, and potential flooding, has issued a State of Preparedness declaration which enables the state to prepare for potential hazards and threats without declaring a State of Emergency. The nation watches as the storm progresses, steeled against the possible wrath of Tropical Storm Debby.