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Debby at the coast: Tornado watch, voluntary evacuation at several beach towns as 15 inches of rain possible
Tropical Storm Debby is approaching the North Carolina coast, prompting tropical storm and storm surge watches for parts of the state.
Wilmington is forecast to get between 10 to 15 inches of rain – roughly two months’ worth – during Debby, according to WRAL meteorologists. The biggest threat along North Carolina’s coast is flooding and storm surge.
WATCH: Live look at conditions at Carolina Beach
On Tuesday morning, WRAL News was at Wrightsville Beach, when some stragglers were outside in the rain. By noon, the beach was empty; the wind had picked up and waves were crashing.
At an emergency town meeting in Ocean Isle Beach, authorities issued a State of Emergency and ordered a voluntary evacuation of the town. Several other towns including Holden Beach and Oak Island, also ordered voluntary evacuations.
A tornado watch was in effect until 1 a.m. Wednesday for counties surrounding Wilmington, including Bladen, Brunswick, Columbus, New Hanover and Pender. Three tornado warnings were already issued Tuesday as the early impacts from Debby were felt at the coast.
Although the tornado watches cleared out, several counties are still under a tropical storm warning.
Wilmington-area residents and visitors were advised to monitor the situation closely and make preparations.
“We’re primarily worried about flooding,” one beachgoer, Becca Young, said. “Hurricane Florence a few years back was really, really bad, so I think that’s the concern on everyone’s mind.”
Other residents aren’t as concerned.
“It’s just a tropical storm; we go through this every other year,” said Robert Orellana, Wrightsville Beach resident.
Locals who lived through Florence’s fury doubt Debby will deliver the same punch. However, the flooding impacts could be severe. Since Debby is slow-moving, the tropical storm could dump a lot of rain – up to 15 inches along the coast – over the next several days.
North Carolina State Fire Marshal Brian Taylor said Debby could rival the devastating impacts of Hurricane Florence.
“All indications are pointing to this storm being similar in magnitude to Hurricane Florence,” Taylor said. “Residents should be prepared for widespread power outages and severe flooding across the central and eastern regions of North Carolina.”
The catastrophic flooding from the 2018 hurricane has been a learning lesson for authorities at New Hanover County Emergency Management. The county now has more equipment to handle catastrophic flooding, such as high-water vehicles.
“We’ve been able to invest in actual equipment since Florence, such as high-water vehicles to help,” said Anna McRay of New Hanover County Emergency Management.
County officials said now is the time to review your emergency plan.
“The best thing to do right now is to take a look at your own personal emergency plans,” said Anna McRay, Assistant Director of Emergency Management New Hanover County. “What’s your comfort level? If the power were to go out today … what would your plan be? How would you take care of your family?”
County officials are warning residents who live in this area. They said even though you may have experienced a hurricane before, you should still take this tropical storm seriously.
As for local preparations, many rental properties and bars in low-lying areas are keeping a close watch.
Some store owners said they would stay but take extra precautions.
“There have been some periods of rain where the rain was really heavy and coming down sideways,” Robert Strupper said. “[We’ll] batten down the hatches outside the house. Furniture, cushions, anything like that [we’ll] take inside.”
County officials will be giving updates during the storm on social media.
Timing: Tropical Storm Debby to move straight through NC this week
According to WRAL meteorologists, the worst of the storm for our area comes Wednesday through Friday, which is why WRAL meteorologists issued WRAL Weather Alert Days. The main threat is flooding, but wind gusts could bring down trees and cause power outages.
A flood watch is in effect for our area and the coast until 9 p.m. Friday.
Staying safe during Tropical Storm Debby
Before the storm
- Create a disaster plan: Determine evacuation routes, communication plans, and assemble an emergency kit.
- Secure your home: Protect windows with storm shutters or plywood, trim trees, and secure outdoor objects.
- Gather supplies: Stock up on non-perishable food, water, batteries, flashlights, a first aid kit, and essential medications.
- Listen to weather updates: Stay informed about the storm’s path and intensity through local news and weather alerts.
During the storm
- Evacuate if ordered: Follow instructions from local authorities and evacuate immediately if necessary.
- Find a safe shelter: If you cannot evacuate, go to the lowest level of a sturdy building, away from windows and doors.
- Stay indoors: Avoid going outside during the storm, as flying debris can cause serious injuries.
- Unplug electronics: Protect your appliances from power surges by unplugging them.
- Listen for updates: Stay informed about the storm’s progress and any emergency instructions.
After the storm
- Be cautious: Avoid damaged areas until authorities declare it safe.
- Beware of hazards: Watch out for downed power lines, gas leaks, and structural damage.
- Help your neighbors: Check on elderly or disabled neighbors.
- Document damage: Take photos of damage for insurance purposes.
- Follow cleanup guidelines: Properly dispose of debris and avoid contaminated water.