Tropical Storm Debby Makes Its Way to Florida

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Tropical storm Debby has been making its way closer and closer to Florida as it has traveled around Mexico and into the Gulf of Mexico.  Finally, as it reaches the top of Florida, it has remained stationary, bringing with it lightning, thunder and pounding rain.  The storm, however, had one more surprise in store, as it has dropped isolated tornados, one of which took a man’s life.

The man, who is assumed dead, went out into the water as the storm was gaining strength.  He dove under the waters at around 1:45 p.m. and hasn’t been seen since.  Although his name is not being released at this time, it was noted that he was vacationing with his family.  Melvin Shepherd, the director of beach safety for Orange Beach, Alabama, made the initial report.

Residents in low-lying areas were instructed to take shelter, as if a hurricane were coming to shore, because of the risk of flooding.  Several areas were closed down to avoid any injuries, including an interstate bridge that spans Tampa Bay to St. Petersburg and the bridge to St. George Island, which is known as a great vacation spot for travelers.  Warnings were also sent out to avoid flooded roads or any other flooded areas.

Overall, Debby has left the top left side of Florida in a bit of a mess.  Many streets were left under into the early morning hours of Monday and others were coated with debris.  The top wind speed for Debby was estimated to be around 90 miles per hour, and it is predicted that the storm is going to continue moving slowly south, towards the Panhandle.