Despite Debby being downgraded to a post-tropical storm as it tracked north, it still brought a plethora of impacts across the Northeast on Friday.
The remnants of Debby have moved away from New Hampshire, but the storm’s impact could still pose a threat, especially for those heading to the Seacoast Region on Saturday. A rip current advisory is in effect at Seacoast, starting at 8 a.m. and running through Saturday evening.
Portions of New England could have some lingering showers from Debby on Saturday morning, but dry and seasonable weather will make a comeback over the Northeast Saturday.
While Debby departs the nation, all eyes are on another tropical wave over the central tropical Atlantic. Currently located halfway between the Cabo Verde Islands and Lesser Antilles, this disturbance now has high odds of developing into a tropical system over the next seven days.
The next few days could see gradual development, but its chances will increase even more as it heads farther west, possibly becoming a tropical depression by the early or middle part of next week upon approaching Lesser Antilles. Regardless of its strength and intensity, it is then expected to reach the Greater Antilles by the second half of next week.
Debris from a building is seen along Route 36 in Canisteo, N.Y., on Aug. 9, 2024, after remnants of Tropical Storm Debby swept through the area.
Craig Ruttle/AP
Debby impacts the Northeast
Heavy rainfall and flash flooding were the among the most prominent impacts Debby had on the Northeast Friday, affecting much of Appalachia and the Mid-Atlantic west of 1-95 corridor. From Maryland up through Upstate New York, a widespread 3 to 6 inches of rain fell, with locally higher amounts in some places. Parts of southeastern New Jersey reported over 8 inches — Pennington, New Jersey, reported 8.67 inches of rain and Hopewell Township, New Jersey, reported 8.24 inches. This resulted in numerous flooding reports.
While multiple Tornado Warnings were issued across the Northeast, only one tornado was confirmed in New Paltz, New York. It was rated an EF-0, with estimated peak wind speeds of 76 mph. No injuries or fatalities were reported, but the tornado did uproot a few hardwood trees as it crossed the NYS Thruway.
Debby also generated gusty winds and high surf for areas closer to the coast. Wind gusts ranged between 40 to 60 mph across portions of the Delmarva up through eastern Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey. A wind gust of 62 mph was reported in Burlington, Vermont.
Tropical Storm Debby, which formed in the central Atlantic Ocean earlier this week, has dissipated, leaving behind remnants of heavy rainfall and gusty winds. The storm, which never reached hurricane strength, brought showers and thunderstorms to parts of the Caribbean and the southeastern United States before weakening and breaking apart.
As the remnants of Debby fade away, meteorologists are now keeping a close eye on a new tropical wave that has formed in the central Atlantic. This new system has the potential to develop into a tropical depression or storm in the coming days as it moves westward across the open waters of the Atlantic.
While it is still too early to predict the exact path and intensity of this new tropical wave, forecasters are urging residents along the East Coast and in the Caribbean to monitor its progress and be prepared for potential impacts. The peak of hurricane season is still ahead, and it is important for all residents in hurricane-prone areas to have a plan in place and be ready to take action if a storm threatens their area.
Tropical storms and hurricanes can bring dangerous conditions such as heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surge, which can lead to flooding, power outages, and property damage. It is crucial for residents to stay informed about the latest weather updates and heed any warnings or advisories issued by local authorities.
As we continue to track the progress of this new tropical wave in the central Atlantic, it serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared and staying vigilant during hurricane season. By staying informed, having a plan, and taking necessary precautions, we can all stay safe and weather the storm.
