Tropical storm warning issued for part of NC coast ahead of Debby

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WNCN) — As Debby makes her way up the east coast after making landfall in Florida Monday morning, the National Weather Service in Wilmington has issued a tropical storm warning for part of the North Carolina coast.

The watch is in effect for coastal waters 20 nautical miles off southeastern North Carolina from Surf City to Cape Fear. It is also in effect for coastal waters 20 nautical miles off northeast South Carolina from Little River Inlet to the South Santee River.

According to NWS Raleigh, winds of 34 to 46 miles per hour (30 to 40 knots per hour) are possible in the area. Gusts of up to 69 miles per hour (60 knots per hour) and seas swells from 6 to 11 feet are also possible in the watch area.

Forecasters also said tropical storm-force winds are possible in the coastal waters beginning Wednesday morning until early Friday morning.

“Hazardous seas could capsize or damage vessels and reduce visibility,” the advisory said. “Mariners could consider altering plans to avoid possible hazardous conditions. Remain in port, seek safe harbor, alter course, and/or secure the vessel for severe wind and seas.”

A storm surge watch is also in effect for the same area, with the “window of concern” from Wednesday evening until early Friday morning. According to NWS Wilmington forecasters, there’s a potential for storm surges from 2 to 4 feet above ground in “surge prone areas,” particularly from Wednesday evening to early Friday morning.

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