Tropical Storm Debby: South Carolina hit with over a foot of rain as Florida contends with deadly hazards
At least five people are dead amid devastating rain and flooding from Tropical Storm Debby
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Tropical Storm Debby slowed over South Carolina Tuesday, bringing over a foot of rain and heavy flooding to the region as Florida reeled from the deadly after-effects of the storm.
Debby, which was downgraded from a Category 1 hurricane, crossed the Florida-Georgia border late Monday. Green Pond, South Carolina recorded more than 14 inches of rainfall on Tuesday as the storm hovered off the state’s coast.
Meanwhile, tornadoes wreaked havoc on the state. One tornado wiped out power lines and damaged homes on Edisto Beach, while another likely tornado caused damage on Isle of Palms, the South Carolina Daily Gazette reported.
Florida is also reeling from Debby. “Deadly” hazards remained a threat to Sunshine State residents on Tuesday, the National Weather Service said. The dangers included downed power lines, continued flooding and heat stroke amid widespread power outages.
Florida officials are also warning residents to properly ventilate rooms with generators to avoid deadly carbon monoxide poisoning.
At least five people have been killed by the storm, which is expected to strengthen while hovering off the South Carolina coast on Wednesday, the National Weather Service said.
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South Carolina dam could fail amid storm
The McGrady Dam in Colleton County, South Carolina has the potential to fail as Tropical Storm Debby brings heavy rain to the region.
Officials with the Colleton County Fire and Rescue have warned nearby residents to evacuate.
The agency clarified on X that a collapse is not imminent.
“The dam is currently holding, again the message was ‘potential to fail’ not ‘expected to fail,’” officials wrote on X. “There is substantial flooding in the area of the dam and creek resulting in Edward Road and Cavanaugh Road being closed by SCDOT.”
ICYMI: Kamala Harris delays North Carolina rally with new running mate Tim Walz due to Debby
Kamala Harris has postponed a Raleigh, North Carolina campaign rally with her newly-announced running mate, Tim Walz, local outlet ABC 11 reports.
The delay comes as Tropical Storm Debby threatens the state with significant flash flooding and potentially historic rain levels, per the National Weather Service.
Donald Trump’s campaign has since announced vice presidential candidate JD Vance will make an appearance in the state capital on Thursday, the same day Harris and Walz were scheduled to speak.
Widespread power outages impact 100,000
More than 100,000 people across Florida, Georgia and South Carolina are experiencing power outages on Tuesday afternoon from Tropical Storm Debby, according to PowerOutage.us.
Amid these outages, officials are warning residents to drink water and watch carefully for signs of heat stroke. Temperatures are nearing triple digits in much of Florida, with heat indexes reaching nearly 110F (43C).
Customers with generators should also ensure the room is properly ventilated to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, the National Weather Service said.
Tropical Storm Debby washes baby sea turtles onto beach
Tropical Storm Debby has forced baby sea turtles onto Florida beaches amid rough seas, heavy rain and storm surge, local outlet Fox 35 Orlando reports.
While they may appear to be in danger, officials told the outlet that anyone who spots a washed up baby sea turtle should leave it alone.
“If you find a sea turtle on the beach, do not put it back in the water. Whatever situation, put it back on land is still a contributing factor, so always call officials to help it,” Volusia County Ranger Rob Howell said.
“They’re like little batteries slowly running out. If they get washed in, they need to recharge that battery as best they can before trying again,” he continued.
Tropical Storm Debby likely to strengthen off South Carolina coast
Tropical Storm Debby, which is currently hovering on the South Carolina coast, will likely strengthen on Wednesday, the National Weather Service said moments ago.
The storm is bringing heavy rain, flooding and tornadoes to South Carolina.
At least five people have been killed by the storm, and more than 100,000 people across Florida, Georgia and South Carolina are without power as of Tuesday evening.
In pictures: Tropical Storm Debby hits South Carolina
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