Warm Gulf Waters Could Bolster Tropical Storm Debby Into a Category 1 Hurricane

Tropical Storm Debby may surge to a Category 1 hurricane prior to landfall, bolstered by the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Authorities in Florida and Georgia are urging residents to prepare as the storm gathers strength through the near-record waters, offering it more time to become even more powerful. If it lingers in the region, the Southeast could witness substantial flooding rainfall in the coming days.

Potential for Hurrican Formation

The National Hurricane Center predicts that Debby, recently upgraded from a tropical depression, has the potential to become a hurricane by Sunday evening. As of their 8 a.m. Sunday update, Debby is situated about 155 miles southwest of Tampa, Florida, and boasts sustained winds of approximately 60 mph. With the outer bands of the storm projected to hit the shore on Sunday itself, residents can expect full-blown hurricane conditions by Sunday night or Monday morning.

Mandatory and Voluntary Evacuations Underway

As Debby takes an alarming route up the Florida Peninsula’s western coast, state and county authorities have announced a series of mandatory and voluntary evacuation orders. These are coupled with hurricane watches and warnings issued by the National Hurricane Center for various parts of the state, embracing Tampa and the Big Bend region. A series of tropical storm and storm surge watches also cover coastal Georgia and parts of South Carolina, including Charleston.

States of Emergency Declared

In anticipation of the storm’s arrival, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Georgia Governor Brian Kemp have declared states of emergency for their states. Governor DeSantis has activated the Florida National Guard to stand by for humanitarian and search-and-rescue assistance. He urged residents to complete preparations for the storm, cautioning particularly against potential power outages, especially around Tallahassee.

Storm Expected to Intensify

According to the National Hurricane Center, the slow movement of Debby combined with warm sea surface temperatures may facilitate the storm’s intensification. Debby is expected to become a Category 1 hurricane upon landfall. By the start of next week, Debby is expected to traverse the Apalachee Bay area, drenching it with copious rain and elevating the risk of flash flooding.

Heavy Rain Predicted for Days

The slow-but-steady movement of Debby along the Georgia-Carolina coastline could dump torrential rain over several days, with totals potentially soaring up to 20 inches. Some models even predict accumulations of 30 inches or more if Debby lingers through the week. High water levels, both from storm surges and flash flooding, pose significant threats to life in tropical systems.