Preparing for Tropical Storm Debby

Tropical Storm Warnings have been issued for parts of Florida as Tropical Storm Debby approaches the Sunshine State. With the potential to develop into Hurricane Debby, this system threatens torrential rain, strong winds, and even storm surge. Here’s what you need to know to stay prepared and informed.

What We Know

Affected Areas in Florida:

• Hurricane Warning for the Florida Gulf coast from the Suwannee River to the Ochlockonee River.
• Tropical Storm Warning for the Florida coast west of the Ochlockonee River to Indian Pass, and for the Florida coast east of the Suwannee River to Yankeetown.
• Tropical Storm Watch for the Florida coast west of Indian Pass to Mexico Beach.

Current Status:

• Tropical Storm Debby is now officially formed.
• Tropical Storm Debby is moving toward the northwest near 15 mph (24 km/h) and is expected to continue this motion tonight, followed by a northward turn on Sunday.
• Maximum sustained winds are near 40 mph (65 km/h) with higher gusts. Will likely reach or near hurricane strength upon reaching the Florida Gulf coast.

Forecast:

• The center of Debby will move across the southeastern and eastern Gulf of Mexico tonight and Sunday, reaching the Florida Gulf coast late Sunday night or Monday.
• Tropical storm conditions are expected to spread northward over the tropical storm warning areas this evening and continue through Sunday.
• Significant rainfall totals of 6 to 12 inches, with totals up to 18 inches, are expected across portions of Florida and the Southeast U.S. coast through Thursday, leading to considerable flash and urban flooding, as well as significant river flooding.

Current Situation in Florida

Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for parts of Florida, and officials urge residents to prepare now. Meteorologists are closely monitoring the system as it moves closer to the Straits of Florida and the Eastern Gulf of Mexico, where environmental conditions are expected to support further development.

How Tropical Storm Debby Might Develop

Tropical Storm Debby is currently showing signs of strengthening as it moves northwest across the Gulf of Mexico. With sustained winds near 40 mph and favorable conditions for intensification, the system is expected to reach or approach hurricane strength by the time it makes landfall along the Florida Gulf coast. Meteorologists are closely monitoring Debby’s development, emphasizing the potential for increased wind speeds and severe weather impacts, making it crucial for residents to stay updated and prepared for any changes.

History of Storm Names

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is responsible for naming tropical storms. Names are used in rotation and re-cycled every six years unless a storm is so deadly or costly that its name is retired from future use. If this storm reaches tropical storm strength, it will be named Tropical Storm Debby. 

Names help in communication and reduce confusion when multiple storms occur simultaneously. The WMO maintains a list of names for each region, ensuring that they are culturally appropriate and easy to pronounce. The practice of naming storms began in the 1950s, and over time, it has become a crucial part of hurricane forecasting and public awareness. Each name on the list has a specific set of criteria and helps in conveying the storm’s strength and potential impact more effectively to the public and authorities.

Preparation Tips for Severe Storms

Stay Informed

• Monitor local news and weather updates.
• Follow updates from the National Hurricane Center.

Emergency Kit

• Assemble an emergency kit with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, and important documents.

Plan Ahead

• Have a family emergency plan in place.
• Know your evacuation routes and shelter locations.

Protect Your Property

• Secure outdoor furniture and items that could become projectiles in strong winds. 
• Check and reinforce your home’s windows, doors, and roof.

Stay Connected

• Ensure your mobile devices are charged.
• Keep a battery-powered radio handy for emergency broadcasts.

By taking these steps, you can better protect yourself, your family, and your property from the impacts of a potential Tropical Storm Debby. Get even more helpful information for you and your community at our Hurricane Resource Center.