Tropical Storm Debby moving slowly, bringing weather watches to Wilmington

The Wilmington area woke up to several watches and warnings Tuesday morning as Tropical Storm Debby continues its slow approach.

As of 8 a.m. Tuesday, Tropical Storm Debby was churning over Georgia, moving northeast at about 6 mph. The storm was located about 20 miles southwest of Savannah, and about 105 miles southwest of Charleston, S.C.

A tornado watch has been issued for Southeastern North Carolina until 5 p.m. Tuesday.

The forecast track has Debby moving offshore around the coast of Georgia later today, drifting there through early Thursday, and then moving inland over South Carolina on Thursday. There is a significant risk of flash flooding for Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina over the next few days, according to the National Hurricane Center.

A topical storm watch is in effect for the North Carolina coast up to Surf City, meaning tropical storm conditions are possible within the watch area over the next 48 hours. A storm surge watch has also been issued for the coast of Brunswick County.

“This is a life-threatening situation. Persons located within these areas should take all necessary actions to protect life and property from rising water and the potential for other dangerous conditions,” the hurricane center said.

On Monday, Debby made landfall near the coastal town of Steinhatchee, Florida. It’s the fourth named storm of the hurricane season and arrived with sustained winds of 80 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center.

More: Flooding hotspots to watch for in the Wilmington area with historic rainfall predicted

STORM TRACKER: Monitor the latest tropical developments here.

Here’s a look at what we can expect in the Wilmington area, according to the latest briefing from the National Weather Service in Wilmington.

Wind

The most likely time of arrival of strong winds to the Wilmington area is Thursday morning. The probability of tropical storm force winds continues to increase, especially along coastal areas from Cape Fear southward.

Rain

Brunswick, New Hanover and Pender counties are expected to see rainfall amounts of 12 to 16 inches, which could result in life-threatening flash flooding, according to the weather service.

The significant flooding could result in some roads being washed away and flooded. “Similar past events have led to flash flood related fatalities from people attempting to drive across flooded roads,” the weather service said. “Do not drive across flooded areas – the current may sweep your vehicle off the road, or the weight of your vehicle may collapse the road.”

The weather service also advised people living along rivers and creeks to make preparations for possible moderate to major flooding developing later this week. The risk of major flooding is highest for the following rivers: Lumber River, Little Pee Dee River, Black Creek, Northeast Cape Fear River and Waccamaw River.

INTERACTIVE MAP: Enter your address to see hurricanes, tropical storms that have passed nearby

Storm surge

Storm surge of 2 to 4 feet is possible from Cape Fear southward, which includes Brunswick County. The threat of surge will increase, especially around high tide Wednesday through Friday morning. This could impact roads prone to coastal flooding and areas where the shoreline is weak from previous storms.

Tornadoes

On Monday, the weather service also said there is a marginal risk of tornadoes, primarily across portions of northeastSouth Carolina, beginning tonight. Forecasters are assessing how this threat could change through Tuesday and beyond.

Marine impacts

Rough surf, including dangerous rip currents, and hazardous marine conditions are expected through much of the week.

Are you prepared for a hurricane?

Hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30. Even if this system won’t pose a threat to the NC coast, it’s never too early to be prepared.

GET READY: Are you prepared for a hurricane? Here’s what to know if you live in the Wilmington area.