Tropical Depression Four has developed into Tropical Storm Debby in the southeastern Gulf of Mexico, according to reports by the National Hurricane Center.
Debby currently has winds of 40 mph and is situated approximately 70 miles northwest of Havana, Cuba, according to the latest update. The storm is expected to become a Category 1 hurricane with 75 mph winds just before making landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region on Monday morning.
Hurricane warnings are now in effect for the Gulf Coast of Florida from the Suwannee River to the Ochlockonee River, including the entire Big Bend region.
A hurricane watch was previously issued from Yankeetown to Indian Pass on the Florida Panhandle. The Big Bend area, still recovering from Hurricane Idalia last August, is bracing for Debby’s impact.
Tropical storm warnings extend across the western Florida coast south of the Big Bend, covering cities like Tampa, Sarasota, Fort Myers, and Naples, with a storm surge warning from Aripeka to the Aucilla River.
The Florida Keys from Seven Mile Bridge westward are under a tropical storm warning.
Heavy rainfall is anticipated, with 3 to 5 inches expected in southwest Florida on Saturday, which could lead to flash flooding.
The storm is projected to strengthen over the weekend while moving parallel to Florida’s western coast.
Forecasters are concerned that the storm may continue to intensify due to unusually warm Gulf waters, with temperatures approaching record highs.
The hurricane center advises residents to prepare for potentially life-threatening conditions, including significant storm surge.
After making landfall, Debby is expected to move northeast over northern Florida and southern Georgia.
The storm’s slow movement may lead to extensive rainfall and flooding.
Flood risk levels have been raised for parts of Georgia and South Carolina, with possible rainfall totals of 5 to 10 inches.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for 54 counties, urging residents to prepare and follow evacuation orders where issued.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has also declared a state of emergency in anticipation of Debby’s impacts.
