Newport, NC – Tropical Storm Debby made landfall early Thursday morning near Bulls Bay, South Carolina, and is now steadily advancing towards central North Carolina. The storm, currently weakening, continues to pose significant threats of flash flooding and tornadoes throughout the day.
According to the National Weather Service in Newport/Morehead City, NC, a tornado watch remains in effect until 1:00 PM EDT Thursday, impacting a wide area of the state, including major towns such as Jacksonville, Kinston, and Greenville. Residents are urged to remain vigilant as the storm’s trajectory brings potentially severe weather, including wind speeds between 39 to 73 mph.
In addition to the tornado threat, Debby is expected to bring substantial rainfall to the region, with forecasts predicting 3-4 inches of rain in many areas, and up to 6 inches in some localized spots. This deluge significantly raises the risk of flash flooding, particularly in areas with poor drainage and low-lying regions.
The weather forecast for the days ahead suggests continued unsettled conditions. As Debby moves inland, rain is expected to persist into Friday, with a 70% chance of showers, followed by scattered thunderstorms through the weekend. Temperatures are forecasted to remain in the upper 70s to mid-80s.
Residents are advised to stay tuned to local weather updates and take necessary precautions, especially in areas prone to flooding. The National Weather Service will continue to provide updated briefings as the situation evolves.
