Tropical Storm Debby has caused severe flooding and rain in historic southern US cities, with at least five people reported dead. The storm, which hit Florida as a category one hurricane before weakening, is now moving up the East Coast from Georgia to South Carolina. Authorities have warned of serious flood risks and are preparing for more heavy rain.
According to BBC, Debby has already dumped over 8 inches of rain on cities like Savannah and Valdosta in Georgia, and between 10 and 12 inches on Charleston and Hilton Head in South Carolina. Charleston has extended its curfew due to the flooding, and Mayor William Cogswell predicts over 2 feet of rain for the city. He emphasized that the city’s pumps won’t be enough to handle such a volume of water.
Officials have advised people to stay indoors to avoid damage and accidents caused by driving through floodwaters. The storm is expected to move along the coast and could regain strength as it moves back over the Atlantic, where warmer waters could boost its intensity.
In Florida, the storm has caused significant damage, with record rainfall in Lakewood Ranch and major flooding in local rivers. There have been fatalities, including a 13-year-old boy and a truck driver, due to the storm’s impact. The storm has also led to power outages for thousands of homes and businesses.
Forecasters predict a busy hurricane season this year, with up to 25 named storms expected. Debby is the fourth storm of the year, and there are concerns that climate change may be increasing the likelihood of slow-moving hurricanes like Debby.
Credit : BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj4xxdknr94o