Tropical storm Debby reached hurricane status on Monday and is heading towards the Big Bend coast in Florida, posing a significant threat to the southeastern United States, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC).
Formed in the northeast Gulf of Mexico, the now-hurricane Debby is approaching the U.S. coast with forecasts of potentially deadly storm surges and catastrophic rains, prompting the NHC to warn of the possibility of significant flooding in the southeastern United States throughout this week.
"Debby strengthens as it approaches landfall in the Big Bend of Florida. It is expected to cause potentially deadly storm surges in parts of Florida and significant flooding in the southeastern United States," the NHC warned on its social media.
The category 1 hurricane brings with it winds of up to 128 km/h. The storm is now less than 100 kilometers from Cedar Key and about 150 kilometers south-southeast of Tallahassee, moving north at 19 km/h.
An additional strengthening of the storm is still expected before making landfall, and it is currently forecasted to reach 136 km/h. At the moment, hurricane-force winds extend up to 72 kilometers from the center, and tropical storm-force winds extend up to 225 kilometers, according to the NHC.
Local authorities in Florida and other southeastern states in the United States are taking precautionary measures to face the arrival of Debby. A tropical storm warning has been issued up to St. Augustine, Florida.
Evacuation orders have been issued in the most vulnerable coastal areas, and residents are being urged to follow the instructions of the authorities and to prepare for possible power outages and structural damage.
The threat of storm surge is particularly concerning for the coastal areas of the Big Bend of Florida. Storm surges can cause rapid and dangerous flooding, affecting both properties and infrastructure.
In addition, the expected torrential rains could cause extensive flooding inland, exacerbating drainage issues and increasing the risk of landslides in elevated areas.
The governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis, declared a state of emergency and mobilized the National Guard to assist in evacuation and rescue operations. Emergency teams are on high alert, and shelters have been established for those who need to leave their homes.
The communities in the path of Hurricane Debby are being urged to stay informed through the media and updates from the NHC. Preparation and quick response are crucial to minimize the impact of this hurricane and protect lives and property.
Debby is the second hurricane of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, following Hurricane Beryl's strike on Texas last month. Normally, the second hurricane does not form before August 26, so the 2024 cyclone season is following the intense pace forecasted by weather models.
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