Tropical Storm Debby Tracker: Heavy Rains and Impact on the Southeast

As Tropical Storm Debby continues to sweep through the southeastern United States, cities like Jacksonville, Florida are experiencing substantial rainfall and significant disruptions. With torrential downpours already reported in the region, the storm is anticipated to deliver more rain, potentially leading to historic flooding from Florida all the way up through Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina.

Current Storm Status

As of now, parts of northern and western Florida have recorded over 12 inches of rainfall. This could signal the onset of a major rain event, with additional heavy precipitation still expected. Meteorologists are actively monitoring the situation and provide frequent updates on rainfall totals, forecasts, and flood warnings across the affected areas.

Rainfall and Flood Reports

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has released maps showing areas most susceptible to flooding due to Debby’s expected impacts. Current warnings indicate that the storm’s effects will extend beyond its defined predicted path, especially concerning heavy rain and wind impacts.

Future Forecast and Expected Rainfall

Forecasts indicate that certain regions could see an additional accumulation of rainfall. These amounts are subject to change as Debby moves, and localized areas may experience even higher rainfall due to stalled rain bands.

Flood Outlook and Historical Context

Forecast maps reveal potential river flooding, with several locations expected to reach minor, moderate, and major flood stages. States like South Carolina are under scrutiny, as their previous rainfall records could be threatened.

Understanding Rainfall Records

• South Carolina’s 24-hour rainfall record stands at 14.80 inches from Hurricane Floyd in September 1999.
• The all-time record rainfall attributed to a tropical cyclone in South Carolina was 23.63 inches during Hurricane Florence in September 2018.
• The heaviest monthly rainfall was recorded at 31.13 inches in Kingstree back in July 1916.

Recent Historical Rainfall Events Comparison

Tropical Storm Debby is following a path similar to several impactful storms in the past. For instance:

• Hurricane Florence (September 2018): Stalled near the Carolinas for nearly three days, causing a peak rainfall of 35.93 inches.
• Hurricane Matthew (October 2016): Brought dramatic flooding to the Carolinas with 100,000 homes affected.
• Upper Low Taps “Joaquin” (October 2015): Resulted in extreme rainfall with totals exceeding 20 inches in some areas.

Safety and Preparedness

Residents in affected areas are advised to stay indoors and monitor local news for updates on the storm’s progression. It’s important to keep safety as a priority amid the impending heavy rainfall and potential flooding conditions.

Stay tuned for ongoing updates regarding Tropical Storm Debby as meteorologists continue to monitor its trajectory and associated impacts across the southeast.