Tropical Storm Debby Set to Intensify into Hurricane, Threatening Florida's Big Bend 8/4

Photo byNational Weather Service

Urgent Preparations Advised as Storm Approaches

The National Weather Service in Tallahassee has issued a critical update regarding Tropical Storm Debby, which is expected to make landfall as a hurricane on Florida's Big Bend coast on Monday. Residents are urged to complete all preparations by Sunday morning to safeguard lives and property.

New Watches and Warnings Issued

Changes to Watches and Warnings:

• A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for Berrien, Colquitt, Cook, and Lanier.

Current Watches and Warnings:

• Storm Surge Warning, Tropical Storm Warning, and Hurricane Watch: Coastal Franklin
• Storm Surge Warning and Hurricane Warning: Coastal Dixie, Coastal Jefferson, Coastal Taylor, and Coastal Wakulla
• Hurricane Warning: Inland Dixie, Inland Jefferson, Inland Taylor, Lafayette, and Madison
• Tropical Storm Warning: Inland Franklin, Inland Wakulla, and Leon
• Tropical Storm Watch: Berrien, Brooks, Coastal Gulf, Colquitt, Cook, Decatur, Gadsden, Grady, Inland Gulf, Lanier, Liberty, Lowndes, and Thomas

Storm Overview

Tropical Storm Debby is currently about 390 miles south of St Marks and 360 miles south of Steinhatchee River, with a movement towards the northwest at 14 mph. The storm's intensity is at 45 mph but is expected to strengthen into a hurricane before landfall.

Potential Impacts

Wind:

• Extensive wind damage expected across the Florida Big Bend region, with potential for major structural damage, uprooted trees, and widespread power outages.

Storm Surge:

• Life-threatening storm surge predicted, with inundation of 6 to 10 feet possible from the Aucilla River to the Suwannee River. Devastating impacts include severe coastal flooding, structural damage, and extreme beach erosion.

Flooding Rain:

• Heavy rainfall of 6 to 10 inches expected in the eastern Florida Big Bend and South Central Georgia, with isolated amounts up to 15 inches. Significant flash flooding and river flooding are likely.

Tornadoes:

• Isolated tornadoes possible, particularly along and right of the storm's track, causing additional risk of damage and power disruptions.

Preparatory Actions

Residents should:

• Complete all storm preparations by Sunday morning.
• Stay informed via local news and weather updates.
• Follow evacuation orders and relocate to safe shelters as advised.
• Secure property and prepare emergency supplies.

Critical Safety Information

• Avoid traveling during the storm; many roads and bridges may become impassable.
• Ensure cell phones are fully charged and have alternative charging methods.
• Never drive through flooded roadways; "Turn Around, Don’t Drown!"

Stay tuned to the National Weather Service for further updates and ensure all preparations are completed promptly to mitigate the risks posed by Tropical Storm Debby.