News

Massive flooding due to storm surge from Hurricane Debby in Horseshoe Beach, Florida

Massive flooding due to storm surge from Hurricane Debby in Horseshoe Beach, Florida

Debby is predicted to hit Florida with 20–30 inches of rain after making landfall as a Category 1 hurricane in late August 2023, especially in areas still recuperating from Hurricane Idalia. Marissa Parra of NBC News explains why Debby has been labeled “Idalia 2.0.”

Due to this morning’s intense rain bands, a number of Sarasota roads are under water and blocked.

In response to a flash flood warning in the area, Sarasota Police stated in a statement that more officers had been sent to assist with localized flooding.

Locals were cautioned not to drive and told to “do not bypass barricades” by the authorities. Police posted images of neighborhoods flooded and roadways transformed into small rivers late Friday night. 

As Hurricane Debby moved up the state, up to 11 inches of rain fell in certain areas of Pinellas County, which is located on Florida’s west central coast, according to the county’s Department of Emergency Management.

Additionally, more rain bands are expected, so the county will probably receive more than a foot of rain. There is a storm surge warning in place and a flash flood warning that lasts until eight in the morning.

Due to heavy winds and water problems, bridges have been closed, and residents have been advised to stay at home for their protection.

Debby is causing a stir even before it touches down. Around 180,000 energy users in Florida were without electricity at 6:30 in the morning, as reported by PowerOutage.us.

This figure is projected to climb as severe winds and flooding are predicted to impact a large portion of the state, along with Georgia and South Carolina.