The former Tropical Storm Debby intensified into a Category 1 hurricane late Sunday night, as it advanced toward an anticipated landfall on the Gulf Coast Monday. Expected to be the first hurricane of the year to strike Florida, Debby is predicted to bring significant rainfall, with totals potentially reaching 30 inches in parts of the Southeast by the end of the week, and poses a risk of life-threatening storm surges.
According to the National Hurricane Center’s 11 p.m. ET Sunday update, Debby has maximum sustained wind speeds of 75 mph. A Category 1 hurricane, as defined by the Saffir-Simpson hurricane wind scale, has sustained winds ranging from 74-95 mph. These storms are capable of causing structural damage, particularly to unanchored older mobile homes, as well as damage to poorly constructed signs, shrubbery, and trees. Loose outdoor items can become dangerous projectiles, and widespread power outages are possible.
Meteorologists with the National Hurricane Center indicated in a Sunday evening update that hurricane conditions are expected along portions of Florida’s Big Bend region on Monday. The hurricane warning extends over 100 miles, from Valdosta, Georgia, to Dixie County, Florida, along the Gulf Coast.
Additionally, tropical storm conditions are forecasted for Monday along the west coast of Florida, affecting areas including Tampa and St. Petersburg.
