Hurricane Debby Nears Florida Big Bend

Tropical Storm Debby is now a hurricane. Debby is currently southwest of Tampa, and is now at hurricane strength before it reaches the coast later today. Winds are currently around 80 miles per hour. A Hurricane Warning is currently in effect along Florida's Big Bend.

Plans are in place to help those affected by Hurricane Debby. That's the message Governor Ron DeSantis delivered yesterday.

DeSantis says the Department of Emergency Management is ensuring the state is prepared to respond quickly and efficiently. He says the state is also trying something new. DeSantis says for the first time, flood control barriers have been placed around utility substations to ensure power is maintained throughout the storm. Also, utility linemen from out-of-state are staged and ready to respond around the clock to restore power as quickly as possible.

Florida can expect federal help responding to Hurricane Debby. President Biden yesterday approved an emergency declaration for the state. He ordered federal assistance to supplement state, tribal and local response efforts. Homeland Security and FEMA will coordinate the federal disaster relief efforts.

The effects of Hurricane Debby can be seen at local airports. Hundreds of flights were canceled or delayed yesterday at Miami International Airport and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.

Some were able to get hotel vouchers. Others resorted to sleeping at the airport.

Nasty weather today and through the week could also impact flights; always check with your airline before you head to the airport- and ask what their weather contingency plan is.