Tropical Storm Debby inundated coastal Georgia and South Carolina on Tuesday, bringing a deluge of rain that could result in 'catastrophic flooding' in cities like Charleston and Savannah. This severe weather event follows the storm's landfall as a hurricane on Florida's Gulf Coast, resulting in multiple fatalities and significant property damage.
Rainfall and Flooding Projections
The National Hurricane Center projected that Debby would produce historic rainfall totals of 10 to 20 inches, with some areas potentially seeing up to 25 inches. This extreme weather is expected to continue through Friday, bringing severe flooding to South Carolina and southeast North Carolina. The governors of these states have declared states of emergency in response.
Current Impact and Conditions
As of Tuesday afternoon, Debby was moving slowly south of Savannah, Georgia, with winds of 40 miles per hour. Heavy rainfall has already left parts of Savannah and Valdosta, Georgia, under more than 8 inches of water. Charleston and Hilton Head, South Carolina, have experienced between 10 and 12 inches of rain, with more expected.
In Savannah, the landmark Bellwether House is weathering the storm well, with its manager noting the building's robust 19th-century construction. However, many tourists have canceled their reservations due to the extreme weather.
Charleston Mayor William Cogswell has predicted over 2 feet of rain before the storm passes, which could overwhelm the city's drainage systems. Consequently, a citywide curfew has been extended until Wednesday morning. The McGrady Dam in Colleton County, near Charleston, is also at risk of breaching, prompting emergency evacuation orders.
Damage and Fatalities
Debby made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane in Florida, dumping 8 to 16 inches of rain in central areas and causing six fatalities—five in Florida and one near Valdosta, Georgia. The storm has also disrupted power for tens of thousands in Florida and Georgia and caused extensive flight cancellations.
Potential Tornadoes
The National Hurricane Center has warned that the storm could also spawn tornadoes. A suspected twister has already caused damage in Moncks Corner, South Carolina, resulting in minor injuries.
Future Path and Precautions
Debby is expected to slow down and move east off Georgia's coast on Tuesday before turning north and heading inland over South Carolina near Charleston by Thursday. Savannah Mayor Van Johnson has dubbed the storm a 'once-in-a-thousand-year' event, predicting severe flooding that will create 'islands' within the city.
Cedrick King from Brunswick, Georgia, is among those taking precautionary measures. He and his family have packed their belongings and are heading north to Atlanta to escape the storm's worst effects.
