Gulf Storms Intensifying: Debbie Set to Become Hurricane
With near-record warm waters in the Gulf of Mexico, Tropical Storm Debby is expected to rapidly intensify into a hurricane before making landfall in the Big Bend, Florida, area. Authorities in Florida and Georgia are urging residents to prepare for the storm, which is forecasted to bring historic rainfall to parts of the Southeast.
Preparing for Impact: Evacuation Orders Issued
Debbie, with sustained winds of 65 mph, has increased by 30 mph in a day and is currently located about 130 miles west-southwest of Tampa, Florida. Heavy rains and storm surges are expected to cause flooding in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. Hurricane conditions are expected by Monday morning, with the storm system making landfall on the coast by Sunday.
Impending Danger: The Threat of Heavy Rainfall
As Debbie slowly moves along the Georgia-Carolina coastline, several days of nonstop rain are expected, with rainfall totals possibly exceeding 2 feet. The storm could bring maximum rainfall amounts of up to 30 inches, challenging state tropical cyclone rainfall records. The warmer atmosphere and ocean temperatures caused by climate change may lead to heavier rainfall and stronger hurricanes.
