Tropical Storm Debby

Tropical Storm Debby is currently an active storm in the Gulf of Mexico, and it is wreaking havoc on surrounding areas, especially Florida. The eye is now located off the coast of the Florida panhandle, and the stationary storm is causing heavy rainfall and floods in Florida. One of the biggest dangers of this storm is it’s slow speed between 0-6 mph. The longer that this low pressure system sticks around, the more rain and flooding it will bring to the gulf. 

At this early stage, it is difficult to predict the projected path of Debby, but most weather stations forecast this storm to be heading eat towards the Atlantic Ocean over this week (www.stormpulse.com). There are sustained winds of 50 mph, and guts of 60 mph spanning across a 200 mile range of wind and clouds. The storm is expected to increase in strength, but only the slightest bit. Additionally, tornado warnings have been issued in northern Florida. 

For Debby, it is the flooding and rain to be concerned about rather than the winds. There could be upto 25 inches of rain in some parts of Florida! The precipitation is now submerging some docks underwater, and a death was reported of a man who was supposedly drowned by the storm. Several roads in Tampa Bay are already flooded as well. There have been reports of downed powerlines, uprooted trees and limbes, and broken light poles. 

The above picture serves as clear evidence to the devastating effects of the tropical storm already. Heavy winds, rain, and floods are plaguing Florida as of now, and is responsible for two deaths and an injury thus far. Warnings that were issued in Lousiana were repealled, but the warnings over the Florida panhandle are still in effect. Civilians in low lying areas were encouraged to evacuate in case of extreme flooding. 

Residents are advised to be wary of the storm and the turbulent seas. Have emergency kits on hand in case this storm takes an unexpected turn for the worse; hurricanes and tropical storms are probably the worst low pressure systems and among the most unpredictable natural phenomenas. 

The huge waves generated by storm are aweing residents and tourists alike as they take pictures of the waves crashing against the piers. These are no conditions to be surfing and swimming in some areas, nor are these light and playful breezes. Slowly strengthening and stationary, Tropical Storm Debby is bringing adverse weather upon Florida.