Worst of Debby is over as it sits off-shore; ‘bursts’ of rain expected

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – After Tuesday’s vicious downpours and strong winds from Debby’s outer bands, Storm Team 2 says the worst of the weather seems to be done for now.

Tropical Storm Debby is towards the southeast, Meteorologist Josh Marthers believes it could pick up strength but not enough to bring major issues.

“There’s just not enough time for this to get really organized and get its act together. If it spent another day out over the Atlantic I think it would have the opportunity to do that, but at this point, it looks like it’s going to be able to move onshore quick enough to where we’ll be able to escape any issues,” said Marthers.

After several days of rain, the Lowcountry has seen 8-14 inches of rain so far. Storm Team 2 forecasts an additional 2-6 inches over the next day or two. Which would hit the range of the original forecast predicted on Monday.

More rain is expected today, Marthers adds that a few bursts of rain will hit the Lowcountry which may add up to an inch of rain. He also said a few gusty winds of up to 20-30 mph could occur during these downpours.

The center of Debby is projected to be on top of South Carolina starting Thursday morning. Storm Team 2 says there could be gusty winds of up to 40 mph and heavy rain.

Grace Lowe says the Edisto Beach tornado on Tuesday was a confirmed EF1 tornado. The estimated peak winds were at 97 mph which struck at 9:45 p.m.

“This was a warned-on tornado, it was offshore then it made its way onto land, that’s near Palmetto Rd and Hwy 174, and continued to move northwest for just about a few minutes or so, and a lot of homes damaged,” said Lowe.

National Weather Service has confirmed tornadoes on Edisto Beach and Moncks Corner but still needs to confirm Isle of Palms, West Ashley and Kiawah.

Tuesday’s rain total broke records in downtown Charleston. The original record set in 1992 at 3.46 inches was broken by Tuesday’s heavy rain marking 3.56 inches.