Tropical Storm Debby is projected to bring heavy rainfall to Central Virginia, which could result in flooding throughout the region.
The National Weather Service says the Charlottesville area should expect 1 to 4 inches of rain between Wednesday and Saturday. Rainfall, and the potential for tornadoes, will be much worse farther east and closer to Richmond.
While the news of any rainfall would typically be welcome in a region suffering from a prolonged drought, like the Charlottesville area is, so much rain so soon could actually be dangerous. When the ground is so dry, rainwater can actually fail to saturate the earth, increasing the likelihood of flash floods.
Forecasts that Debby will bring significant rainfall and flooding across Virginia prompted Gov. Glenn Youngkin to declare a state of emergency.
The forecasts warn that transportation will be difficult, and that Virginians could suffer power outages.
A state of emergency declaration clears the way to mobilize resources and equipment needed for response and recovery efforts. It also authorizes the state to order evacuations if needed to keep people safe.
The storm is expected to hit Virginia on Wednesday evening, with the potential for tropical storm force winds, heavy rain and severe flooding.
The state Emergency Operations Center, working with local, state and federal agencies, will coordinate preparations including prepositioning of supplies and other items needed to respond to problems caused by the storm.
The Virginia Department of Emergency Management will release all official information through its Joint Information Center, which also includes Virginia State Police, the Virginia Department of Transportation and the Virginia National Guard.
“As we prepare for Tropical Storm Debby, I urge all Virginians and visitors to stay informed, follow local emergency guidelines, and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their families and communities,” Youngkin said. “It’s crucial that we work together and remain vigilant during these times to minimize the impact of the storm."
“The effects of Debby are far-reaching, and our neighboring states are facing significant challenges," he continued. "Suzanne and I are praying for the residents of North Carolina, Florida, South Carolina, and Georgia as they endure the impacts of this tropical storm.”
The state of emergency will remain in effect for 30 days unless rescinded.
Crews preparing for storm
Craig Carper, a spokesman for Dominion Energy, said Dominion crews are preparing for potential widespread power outages across Virginia and North Carolina, which includes stockpiling equipment and supplies.
Carper pointed out that with the ground and trees saturated from recent heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorms, Debby could cause more significant damage, such as falling trees.
For safety purposes, Dominion recommends avoiding power lines, finding alternate routes around hazards such as downed trees and sheltering in place if local authorities advise people to do so.
“The most important thing is to stay away from downed poles and power lines,” Carper said. “Stay at least 30 feet away; you want to assume always that the line could be energized, and it’s dangerous.”
Dominion also suggests fully charging devices before the storm and considering purchasing portable batteries. Other tips include keeping bottled water, nonperishable food, flashlights, first-aid kits and medications on hand, operating generators outdoors with proper ventilation and keeping up to date on the latest conditions.
VDEM is recommending similar safety tips for residents, particularly those in southern central Virginia.
Those who lose power can report outages and track restoration times with the Dominion Energy app, by visiting dominionenergy.com or by calling 1-866-DOM-HELP.
Richmond Times-Dispatch reporter David Ress and Daily Progress staff contributed to this story.
Source: www.dailyprogress.com
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