On August 4, 2024, Tropical Storm Debby was identified as a significant weather threat, with forecasters predicting it would rapidly intensify into a hurricane before making landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region. The storm was expected to bring potentially historic rainfall due to near-record warm waters in the Gulf of Mexico.

The National Hurricane Center, along with FEMA, is tasked with preparing residents in the affected areas for the anticipated severe weather conditions. The goal is to ensure public safety by providing timely information and guidance on how to handle the impending storm and its associated risks.

The National Hurricane Center issued warnings about the storm’s trajectory, projecting that it will develop further and cross over South Georgia after making landfall in Western Florida.

FEMA issued a comprehensive guide for residents, advising them on how to prepare for potential flooding and severe weather. The key recommendations include:

• Preparation: Residents are encouraged to have a plan for keeping themselves, their families, and their pets safe. This includes considering unique family needs and ensuring everyone knows how to communicate and reconnect if separated.
• Safety During Flooding: Residents are reminded to avoid walking, swimming, or driving through floodwaters. FEMA emphasizes the risks of fast-moving water and urges caution on bridges and roads.
• Evacuation: If evacuation orders are given, residents are advised to act immediately, understanding their risks, what to bring, and where to go.
• Document Safety: FEMA suggests keeping important documents secure in a waterproof container and creating digital copies to facilitate recovery post-storm.

By following these actions, residents in the projected path of Tropical Storm Debby will be better prepared to face the storm’s impacts. The proactive measures recommended by FEMA aim to minimize risk, ensure safety, and streamline the recovery process after the storm passes.