NWS confirms two tornadoes associated with Debby touched down in SC

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – National Weather Service forecasters confirmed two tornadoes touched down overnight in association with Tropical Storm Debby.

The first tornado occurred on Edisto Beach, and the second happened in Moncks Corner from late Monday into early Tuesday. Forecasters are working to determine the final path and EF rating of both.

Specialists are still investigating whether a tornado occurred in four other areas which are:

1. Ladys Island, SC (Beaufort Co)
2. West Ashley, SC (Charleston Co)
3. Kiawah Island, SC (Charleston Co)
4. Isle of Palms, SC (Charleston Co)

NWS said they hope to send out a determination within the coming days.

Edisto’s tornado formed from a waterspout off of one of Debby’s outer rain bands that made landfall on the beach. The tornado was categorized as an EF1 with estimated peak winds at 97 mph, the National Weather Service determined.

Colleton County officials reported the heaviest damage occurred on Palmetto Boulevard, including downed power lines and property damage.

The twister took off roof decking, shingles, and siding before moving northwest over a marsh region, snapping and uprooting trees on Palmetto Road.

According to the NWS damage survey, the twister considerably damaged several homes on Fishing Creek Drive. Three homes’ roofs were removed entirely, which is where the EF1 rating comes from, with winds around 97 mph while moving through this area.

The twister dissipated soon after over the marshy region of north Palmetto Road.

Early Tuesday morning damage reports started coming in from Moncks Corner . Images show heavy damage to the Arby’s restaurant near U.S. Highway 52 and a truck flipped onto another vehicle.

“Damaged the Arbys, went between the Walmart and the Dollar Tree building. Luckily, we have minor injuries. It didn’t hit any residential, so we’re really blessed,” said Moncks Corner Mayor Thomas Hamilton.

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