Washington County is under a flood watch as Hurricane Debby passes through the southeastern United States.
The fourth named storm of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season was upgraded from a tropical storm to a Category 1 hurricane late Sunday night.
Strengthening as it makes landfall, Hurricane Debby is expected to impact the state of Georgia on Monday and Tuesday.
“Historic, unprecedented, and potentially deadly” – the words used to describe the amount of rainfall predicated for the more southeastern portions of the state.
10 to 15 inches of rain – with the potential for more than 20 – is expected in the most prone areas of Georgia over the next 5 days.
Washington and surrounding counties may see 2 to 5 inches of rain.
According to the National Weather Service, the county has a slight risk, or 15 percent chance, of experiencing flash flooding.
Usually resulting from intense amounts of rain over a brief period, floods can be slow or fast rising, but can occur with little warning. Individuals housed near a dam at are a much increased risk of being affected by a flood.
Property insurance does not typically cover flood damage. The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA) advises homeowners to talk with their insurance provider about their policy.
On Saturday, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp declared a State of Emergency for all 159 Georgia counties in anticipation of the incoming effects of Hurricane Debby.
GEMA reminds citizens that with heavy rainfall, accompanying strong winds could also lead to downed trees and power lines.
Drivers are encouraged to limit their time traveling on roads during the rain. Do not drive through standing water.
The flood watch in Washington County is extended through 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday.
A flood watch means widespread flooding is possible in your area.
Washington County is not under a flood warning, which means a flood is expected in your area within six to 12 hours.