When will Tropical Storm Debby reach the Piedmont Triad, North Carolina?

(WGHP) – Tropical Storm Debby continues to dump rainfall on Georgia and South Carolina, but when can we expect the impacts to start here in the Triad? 

As of the 11 a.m. Tuesday update from the National Hurricane Center, Debby is barely hanging on to tropical storm strength with sustained winds of 40 mph. The storm’s movement is forecast to slow down even more but is currently still moving east-northeast at 6 mph. 

While isolated showers from the outer rain bands of Tropical Storm Debby will begin to reach the Triad as early as Tuesday afternoon, the more widespread rainfall will start arriving late Wednesday night. 

From late Wednesday night through Thursday and into Friday, expect widespread, heavy rainfall across the majority of the Piedmont Triad.

As of the most recent update, the soggiest day with the highest impacts in the Triad from Debby will occur on Thursday with lingering impacts into Friday before the storm pushes further north. 

With widespread, heavy rainfall for a significant portion of the day Thursday, flooding will be our main concern.

A moderate to high risk for excessive rainfall extends into the southeastern portion of the FOX8 viewing area which means numerous flash flooding events are likely. 

Rainfall totals across the Triad vary by location but five to 10 inches of rainfall is possible from Forsyth, Stokes and Davidson counties eastward with 2 to 4 inches in the Foothills. 

These rainfall totals will likely change as Debby continues to track northward since what we see will depend on where the center of circulation tracks. 

If Debby’s center pushes further west, we may see rainfall totals increase. However, if the center moves more eastward, our totals may decrease. 

While rain and flooding are our primary concerns with Debby, gusty winds are also forecast. 

We’ll see sustained winds of 10 to 25 mph possible with wind gusts between 30 to 45 mph. 

What should you do to prepare for Debby? 

Since our highest weather impact days will be Thursday and Friday, you still have Tuesday and Wednesday to prepare for Debby’s impacts. 

As with any tropical system, it’s a good idea to make sure you have all electronics charged with extra batteries ready to go just in case we see power outages. 

To go along with the potential for power outages, have flashlights or camping lanterns where you can easily locate them. Do not rely on candles for light because they’re a high fire risk. 

If there are dead trees or loose branches near your house, it’s a good idea to trim them down, lessening the risk of damage to your property. 

If you have the ability, it’s a good idea to mow your lawn because there likely won’t be a good opportunity over the next several days.

Any loose objects outdoors can become a hazard if they’re not properly secured so be sure to secure them or bring them indoors before Wednesday night. 

Cone of Uncertainty Forecast