VA State Of Emergency Declared As Tropical Storm Debby Approaches

VIRGINIA — Gov. Glenn Youngkin declared a state of emergency Tuesday afternoon ahead of Tropical Storm Debby, which is expected to bring multiple days of heavy rainfall and storms to Virginia starting on Wednesday evening.

Debby brought prolonged downpours and flooding to the southeastern United States on Tuesday and is expected to hover over the Atlantic Ocean for the next few days, then boomerang back onto the mainland, leading to potentially record-setting rainfall, the National Hurricane Center warned.

The storm is forecast to move relatively slowly across coastal cities in Georgia and South Carolina before moving northeastward across eastern North Carolina and Virginia late Wednesday, the National Weather Service said.

Related: Tropical Storm Debby: Latest Forecast For VA Impacts

“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. There is the potential for strong winds, heavy rains, and possible flooding across regions of the Commonwealth,” 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.”

Read the full text of Gov. Glenn Youngkin's executive order.

Now that a state of emergency has been declared, the state will be able to mobilize resources and equipment to respond to the tropical storm and oversee recovery efforts. Although the path of Tropical Storm Debby remains uncertain, the latest forecasts have indicated the need for Virginians to prepare for potentially heavy rainfall, flooding, high winds and possible storm surges.

The Virginia Emergency Support Team will continue to monitor the situation and coordinate the deployment of resources as more information becomes available about the storm. The Virginia Emergency Operations Center, which has been tracking the severe weather heading toward Virginia, anticipates the storm's will arrive in the Commonwealth Wednesday evening.

Recommendations for Virginians

Make a plan. Plan in advance a route to a safe place, how you will stay in contact with family and friends, and what you will do in different situations. Additional planning resources are available at vaemergency.gov/prepare/make-a-plan.

Prepare an emergency kit. For a list of recommended emergency supplies to sustain your household before, during, and after the storm's visit: VAemergency.gov/emergency-kit.

Stay informed. Virginians should follow the Virginia Department of Emergency Management on X and Facebook for preparedness updates and their local National Weather Service office for the latest weather forecast, advisories, watches or warnings. Download the FEMA app on your smartphone to receive mobile alerts from the National Weather Service. Power outages are always a concern during weather events—make sure you have a battery-operated radio available so you can still receive life-saving alerts.

For more information about preparing your business, your family, and your property against hurricane threats visit: VAemergency.gov/hurricanes and ready.gov/hurricanes.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.