SOUTHEASTERN N.C. — Hurricane Debby landed near Steinhatchee, Florida, as a category one on Monday morning with sustained 80 mile-per-hour winds.
The storm is expected to slow to a crawl and move into Georgia and South Carolina on Tuesday and Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service. With it will come life-threatening flash-flooding — up to a foot of rain — and tropical storm-force winds.
NWS released in its 7:30 a.m. update that the “storm track is a little slower beyond Wednesday,” where it may stall over South Carolina. But the storm’s aftereffects could reach North Carolina mid-week and linger through the latter part. Though too early to predict the track, the NWS noted its slow progression may lead to “catastrophic amounts of rainfall” in the region.
Areas of Brunswick County are under an extreme flood watch, with rainfall projected to be 16 to 20 inches.
New Hanover and Pender counties are expected to experience major flooding, with 8 to 16 inches.
By comparison, Hurricane Florence — a cat one that landed in Wilmington in 2018 — brought 23 inches of rain as it held over the region for two days. It’s the wettest single storm on local record.
The water surge expected from Debby will impact area rivers and tributaries. Residents living near Northeast Cape Fear River should prepare for moderate to major flooding.
Areas could be cut off by flood waters, so motorists are advised to avoid roads upon Debby’s approach, due to currents that could sweep vehicles or roads potentially collapsing due to extreme water.
“Similar past events have led to flash flood-related fatalities from people attempting to drive across flooded roads,” according to the NWS.
As well, the hurricane will bring rough surf and dangerous rip currents and marine conditions, to continue through the week’s end. It’s not advised to swim in the ocean during this time.
The National Weather Service has marginal tornado risks across the southeastern North Carolina coast. NWS will give its next update Monday evening.
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