Hurricane Debby formed in the Gulf of Mexico Sunday night, intensifying into a Category 1 storm as it moved toward the Florida Big Bend region. According to the latest advisory from the National Hurricane Center, Debby has officially made landfall this morning near Steinhatchee, bringing with it the threat of major flooding and life-threatening storm surge.
The hurricane, currently moving north at 12 mph, made landfall along Florida’s Big Bend coast. As of a special 4 a.m. advisory, the storm’s sustained winds were clocked at 80 mph, with higher gusts expected. Residents in the region have been urged to prepare for potential record-setting rains and catastrophic flooding, as well as the danger of storm surge that could impact coastal communities.
Meteorologists have warned that the storm’s impact will not be limited to high winds and rain; it is also expected to cause significant coastal erosion and infrastructure damage.
Emergency services and local authorities are on high alert, with hurricane warnings and advisories issued across the affected areas. Communities in the projected path of the storm have been advised to take necessary precautions, including securing property and having an evacuation plan in place.
The National Hurricane Center continues to monitor its development and provide updates to ensure the safety and preparedness of those in its path.
The National Hurricane Center is forecasting “potentially historic rainfall” across southeast Georgia and South Carolina through Friday, causing widespread flash flooding and life-threatening conditions.
