ORLANDO, Fla. – Hurricane Debby continues its path toward the Gulf Coast of Florida on Sunday, with most models favoring a landfall between Apalachicola and Perry by Monday morning.
Although this storm will be landfalling 100 to 200 miles away, its tropical storm conditions will expand as far as that. Meaning, Central Floridians should expect a soggy Sunday as feeder bands move overhead.
Due to the flooding and severe weather threats, Sunday and Monday will both be designated a Weather Alert Day.
Remember, tropical systems don’t bring consistent rain and storms all day. In the case with Debby, we will see rounds of tropical downpours followed by a small lull in activity. Make sure to stay weather aware through the day as squally weather has the potential to change quickly.
[EXCLUSIVE: Become a News 6 Insider (it’s FREE) | PINIT! Share your photos]
TROPICAL TIMELINE:
Sunday Afternoon:
- 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.: Scattered storms will begin to bubble up through the afternoon
- 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.: Latest models pick up a feeder band quickly sweeping through from the southwest to the east coast.
Sunday Night:
- Conditions remain cloudy and windy through the overnight with light rain.
Monday:
- As Debby makes landfall near the Big Bend of Florida, another batch of squally weather tracks through between 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Click here for a more detailed look at the Central Florida impacts county-by-county.
SUNDAY AND MONDAY THREATS:
WIND:
Due to Central Florida remaining on the east side (also known as the “Dirty Side”) of Debby, the threat for tornadoes will be present through Sunday. Due to this threat, there is a slight risk (Level 2/5) for severe weather expected along with a 40-60% chance of tropical storm force wind gusts of 30 to 50 mph.
RAIN:
A slight risk (Level 2/5) for excessive rainfall is expected Sunday with much of the area accumulating 2-4 inches of total rain with higher amounts of 6-8 inches. The areas with these higher-end rain totals could see flooding, especially areas in poorly-drained or low-lying areas.
MARINE:
Hazardous boating conditions will continue over the coastal waters of the Atlantic with winds up to 20-25 knots and seas building up to 5-7 feet. A small craft advisory remains in effect through Sunday night. Along with rough seas, the surf will also pick up, increasing the threat for rip currents.
The entire News 6 Pinpoint Weather Team will be monitoring the latest on Debby and its impacts to Central Florida all weekend long. Stay tuned.
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: