Tropical Storm Debby Brings Record-Breaking Rains and Flash Floods to Parts of the US

Tropical Storm Debby made landfall along the Gulf Coast of Florida (Southeast of the United States) on August 5, bringing record-breaking rainfall of up to 76cm, causing flash floods in many areas and killing at least 5 people.

Sarasota, a popular beach town, was among the hardest hit by the flooding. The Sarasota Police Department said about 500 people had been rescued from flooded homes.

In the Manatee area (north of Sarasota), 186 people were rescued.

A flash flood emergency has been declared in the Lake City area, where up to 30.5cm of rain has fallen and more is expected.

Governor Ron DeSantis warned that Florida remains at risk next week as water from northern waterways crests and flows south.

According to Governor DeSantis, about 250,000 residents in Florida have lost power. Mr. DeSantis also deployed 3,000 National Guard personnel in the state to support the response to Hurricane Debby.

According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Hurricane Debby is expected to reach Georgia before moving offshore and approaching the coast of South Carolina on August 8.

Heavy rain warnings remain in place at their highest level. "This will result in a prolonged period of extremely heavy rain, with the potential for severe flooding across coastal areas of Georgia, South Carolina, and even into North Carolina," NHC Director Michael Brennan said.

Storm surge warnings - warnings of life-threatening flooding from rising water - are in effect for parts of Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina.

Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for part of the Citrus area, Florida, while voluntary evacuation orders have been imposed on eight other areas.

The governors of Georgia and South Carolina declared states of emergency before Hurricane Debby hit.

President Joe Biden has also declared a state of emergency in Florida and Georgia, allowing for accelerated aid to the two states.

Scientists say climate change may be accelerating the formation of more intense storms.

Last month, at least 18 people died when powerful Hurricane Beryl swept through the Caribbean before hitting the southern US states of Texas and Louisiana.