Tropical Storm Debby, though taking a pause over the western Atlantic, continues to drench the coastal Carolinas and poses a significant flood threat, according to the National Hurricane Center, cited by the CBS News.
Debby is expected to move over the South Carolina coast by early Thursday. The storm will then track northward across the Carolinas and Mid-Atlantic region on Thursday and Friday, potentially reaching the Washington area by Saturday.
While some strengthening is possible before landfall, Debby is forecast to weaken after moving inland.
Despite the storm’s slow pace, heavy rain bands are expected to continue impacting the Carolinas, which have already endured two billion-dollar floods in the past eight years. Debby could bring an additional 3 to 9 inches of rain, with potential totals reaching 25 inches in South Carolina and 15 inches in southeast North Carolina.
The storm is already being blamed for at least five deaths, including two children, in Florida and Georgia. Thousands of Floridians remain without power.
The National Hurricane Center is urging residents in the affected areas to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to avoid further damage and potential flooding.
