Tropical Storm Debby Heads for Florida
- Tropical Storm Debby is moving across the Gulf of Mexico, prompting warnings in Florida's west coast and the panhandle.
- Heavy rains are expected as the storm continues to advance.
- Residents are urged to prepare for potential severe weather conditions.
A tropical depression has intensified into Tropical Storm Debby, located north of Cuba, and is on track to become a hurricane as it approaches the Gulf of Mexico. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported that Debby was situated approximately 50 miles west-southwest of Dry Tortugas National Park and 260 miles south-southwest of Tampa, moving northwest at 14 mph with maximum sustained winds of 45 mph. In response to the storm's trajectory, a Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for areas in the Florida Keys west of Seven Mile Bridge and much of the state's west coast, extending from near Gainesville to the Everglades. The NHC anticipates that tropical storm conditions could begin affecting these regions by late Sunday night. Additionally, a Hurricane Watch is in effect for a 200-mile stretch of the panhandle, with severe weather expected to impact the coastline early Monday. Residents along Florida's west coast should prepare for potential storm surges and heavy rainfall, with forecasts predicting up to 15 inches of rain in some areas over the coming days. The NHC has warned of increasing winds and hazardous surf conditions, including life-threatening rip currents. In light of the impending storm, the governors of Florida and Georgia declared states of emergency on Saturday. Tropical Storm Debby marks the fourth named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, following Tropical Storm Alberto, Hurricane Beryl, and Tropical Storm Chris, which all formed in June.