Tropical Storm Warning Issued for Parts of Florida as Potential Cyclone Approaches
Tropical Storm Debby is forecast to hit Florida this weekend, prompting warnings and emergency preparations across the state. The system, currently designated as Potential Tropical Cyclone Four, is expected to bring torrential rain, strong winds, and potential flooding to Florida and parts of the southeastern United States.
Storm Warnings and Watches Issued
A tropical storm warning has been issued for Florida’s southwest coast from East Cape Sable to Bonita Beach. This warning indicates that tropical storm conditions are expected within 36 hours.
Tropical storm watches are in effect for parts of the Florida Keys, the southern tip of Florida, and west-central Florida from north of Bonita Beach to Aripeka. These watches mean tropical storm conditions are possible within 48 hours.
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has designated the system as Potential Tropical Cyclone Four, allowing for the issuance of advisories and warnings before the storm fully develops.
Storm Trajectory and Intensity
As of Friday afternoon, the system is located over southeastern Cuba with winds of 25-30 mph over the southeastern Bahamas. It is moving westward across Cuba and is expected to emerge over the Straits of Florida by Saturday evening or Sunday.
The NHC forecasts that the system could become Tropical Depression Four by Saturday morning and potentially strengthen into Tropical Storm Debby prior to making landfall in Florida on Sunday or Sunday night.
After landfall, the storm is projected to track near the Southeast coast early next week, where it may intensify further if it remains over water. The exact track and strength of the system remain uncertain.
Potential Impacts and Preparations
The primary concern with this system is the potential for heavy rainfall and flooding. A level 2 of 4 risk of flooding rainfall is in place for much of South Florida on Saturday, with rainfall rates of 2.5 to 3 inches per hour possible in the heaviest storms.
Total rainfall amounts of 4 to 8 inches are possible through Monday over much of Florida and the coasts of Georgia and the Carolinas. Up to 3 feet of storm surge is possible along the coast from South Florida to north of Tampa Bay.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for 54 of the state’s 67 counties to mobilize resources ahead of the storm. Sandbag distribution has begun in several communities in the Orlando and Tampa metro areas, as well as in panhandle counties.
Ongoing Monitoring and Advice
The National Hurricane Center cautions that small changes in the storm’s path could significantly affect which areas experience the greatest impacts.
Residents in the affected areas are advised to stay informed about the storm’s progress and follow local authorities’ instructions as the situation develops.
