Tropical Storm Debby Could Become Hurricane in Gulf

Warm Gulf Waters May Strengthen Tropical Storm Debby to Category 1 Hurricane Before Landfall

As Tropical Storm Debby churns through the Gulf of Mexico, forecasters are paying close attention to the storm’s potential to strengthen due to its slow speed and the warm waters it traverses. These factors could allow Debby to intensify into a Category 1 hurricane before making landfall, bringing significant flooding risks to the Southeast.

Current Status and Forecast

As of Sunday morning, Debby is located approximately 130 miles west-southwest of Tampa, Florida, with sustained winds of 65 mph. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) expects the storm to continue gaining strength, potentially becoming a hurricane by Sunday evening. The warm, near-record Gulf waters are a key factor in this potential intensification.

Potential Impact and Preparations

The slow-moving nature of Debby means it could bring prolonged periods of heavy rain, increasing the risk of flooding in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. Authorities in these states are urging residents to prepare for the storm. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Georgia Governor Brian Kemp have declared states of emergency in anticipation of the storm's impact.

• Flooding Risks: The NHC has warned that heavy rainfall and storm surge could lead to significant flooding. Coastal regions, including the cities of Savannah, Georgia, and Charleston, South Carolina, could see a month’s worth of rain in just one day.
• Evacuation Orders: Several counties in Florida have issued voluntary and mandatory evacuation orders. The areas under hurricane watches and warnings include parts of the Florida Peninsula’s western coast, near Tampa and the Big Bend region.
• State of Emergency: Governors DeSantis and Kemp have activated state resources, including the Florida National Guard, to assist with search and rescue operations and other humanitarian needs. DeSantis emphasized the importance of preparing for power outages and debris from fallen trees.

Timeline of the Storm

• Sunday: The outer bands of Debby are expected to begin impacting the Gulf Coast.
• Monday Morning: Hurricane conditions could arrive, with the storm’s center reaching Florida’s Big Bend.
• Monday to Tuesday: Debby is forecast to slowly move across northern Florida and southern Georgia, maintaining the threat of heavy rain and flooding.

Residents in the storm's path are advised to complete their preparations, stay informed about local evacuation orders, and be ready for potential power outages and other disruptions.

For more detailed updates and tracking, refer to the National Hurricane Center and local weather advisories.