Debby Downgraded to Post-Tropical Cyclone: Flooding and Tornadoes Still Posible
Summary
Early Friday, Tropical Storm Debby was downgraded to a post-tropical cyclone, but it still poses a threatening presence as it moves northward. Despite its weakened state, the cyclone is predicted to bring flooding and potentially spawning tornadoes through the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast US.
Current State of the Cyclone
Debby, with wind speeds of 30 mph and stronger gusts, is predicted to gather speed as it moves north, after causing havoc in the Carolinas for several days. The conditions created have resulted in dangerous levels of flooding in certain places. More than 17 million individuals found themselves under tornado watches on Friday morning, spanning across North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, and Maryland.
The Aftermath of Debby’s Landfall
Debby initially made landfall in Florida as a Category 1 storm on Monday, causing havoc that resulted in at least seven fatalities in the Southeast. Torrential downpours and destructive winds have devastated homes, caused widespread flooding, and trapped individuals in vehicles, homes, and boats. As the weekend draws near, the sweltering heat across the region is anticipated to hinder recovery efforts.
Tornado Watches Spread Across States
A tornado watch has been issued until 7 a.m. Friday, covering eastern North Carolina, central and eastern Virginia, eastern West Virginia, and Maryland. This includes cities such as Raleigh, Richmond, Baltimore, and Washington, DC.
Flash flood Emergencies in South Carolina
The National Weather Service issued a flash flood emergency early Friday for parts of South Carolina’s Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties. Reports note ongoing high-water rescues and dangerous widespread flash flooding, particularly in the city of Moncks Corner. The emergency remained in effect until 5:30 a.m. ET.
The Rising Death Toll
Apart from the seven individuals who have already lost their lives due to the storm, a 78-year-old woman was reported dead after a tree collapsed on her trailer in Rockingham, North Carolina. North Carolina’s Wilson County reported a man’s death after his house succumbed to the impact of a tornado induced by Debby.
Potential Flooding and Future Projections
The Northeast faces a significant threat of flooding, despite lower rainfall totals expected on Friday compared to earlier in the week. More than 35 million individuals are under some level of flood alert, which stretches over 800 miles from South Carolina to Northern New York and Vermont.
The Path of Debby
The most copious rainfall on Friday is expected to stretch from central Pennsylvania through central New York and into Vermont. Rainfall in these areas could range from 2 to 4 inches, with some areas potentially experiencing higher amounts. Peak rainfall in New York City is projected to occur after the evening commute hours.
Critical Heat Conditions in the Southeast
The Southeast regions in the path of Debby will likely experience hazardous heat conditions during the weekend, hindering recovery efforts further. With expected high temperatures in the upper 80s and lower 90s, the heat indices that include the effect of humidity could exceed 110 degrees.
Rescue Operations Amidst The Chaos
Debby has caused extensive flooding in parts of Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas, leading to various water rescue operations. In Raleigh, North Carolina, three children were rescued from rushing floodwaters at a local creek. The children were attempting to cross the creek and found themselves trapped by the swift-moving waters.
