Richmond could see 4 to 8 inches of rain, National Weather Service says (2024)

Tropical Storm Debby is projected to bring heavy rainfall to Richmond, which could result in flooding throughout the area.

Meteorologist Larry Brown with the National Weather Service Forecast Office in Wakefield said the Richmond region is looking at 4 to 8 inches of rain from Thursday through Friday night or Saturday. He added that there is potential for isolated tornadoes on Friday.

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 pre-positioning 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,” he said.

“The effects of Debby are far-reaching, and our neighboring states are facing significant challenges. 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The state of emergency will remain in effect for 30 days unless rescinded.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 spokesperson 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.

Former Richmonders feeling Debby’s impact

While Richmond awaits Debby’s potential effects, former Richmond residents have already witnessed the storm’s impact.

Courtney Diehl, 44, of Bradenton, Florida, lived in Richmond most of her life. One of her sons lives in Richmond, and another son is in the city on a visit.

On Sunday, Diehl cut her latest Richmond trip short to try and beat the storm on the way back to Florida. She drove through some rain in southern Georgia, but the conditions were worse when she reached Tampa.

“When I hit Tampa, it was rough getting home,” Diehl said. “It took me about three hours, which is only a 45-minute drive usually.”

Diehl said there was flooding in her front yard and some downed tree limbs, but no damage to her house. She said her immediate area had similar conditions: a lot of flooding but not much damage to homes or other buildings.

However, in Sarasota, Florida – about 13 miles south of Bradenton – the storm brought more damage to properties.

Laura Sambursky, 42, moved from Richmond to Florida in 2000, spending 19 of the past 24 years in Sarasota. She said Sarasota received twice as much rain as expected from the storm, resulting in damaged homes and bringing danger to residents.

“A lot of people have lost their homes,” Sambursky said. “The police have been performing a lot of water rescues and a lot of people are in shelters.”

Sambursky said her home is experiencing some leaks, but no other damage.

“We’re overall very lucky,” Sambursky said. “My house is fine but the people who are being water-rescued are two miles from my house. It’s basically walking distance and things are horrible.”

Like Diehl, Sambursky also has family still in Richmond. Both worry that Richmond will experience flooding, particularly downtown.

“It’s gonna get nasty,” Diehl said. “I’m a little worried about my boys.”