Tropical Storm Debby is steadily moving towards the coast of South Carolina and is expected to make landfall by Wednesday night or early Thursday, according to the latest update from the National Hurricane Center (NHC). The storm has slightly strengthened, increasing the likelihood of heavy rainfall and potential flooding in parts of the Carolinas, particularly along the coast.

As of 2 p.m. on August 7th, Debby's center was located approximately 55 miles east-southeast of Charleston and 90 miles south of Myrtle Beach. The storm is currently moving northeast at a pace of 3 mph. The NHC predicts that Debby will continue its northward trajectory, bringing its center to the South Carolina coast by tonight or early Thursday. On Thursday and Friday, the storm is expected to rapidly move across the north and north-northeast, affecting the Carolinas and the Mid-Atlantic states.

The NHC has issued a Tropical Storm Warning for areas north of the Savannah River to Surf City, North Carolina, while a Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for areas north of Surf City to Beaufort Inlet, North Carolina. Forecasters are urging residents in these areas to stay vigilant and prepare for possible tropical storm conditions, including strong winds and storm surges that could cause coastal flooding.

Heavy rainfall remains a significant concern as Debby approaches. Parts of the Carolinas are already experiencing substantial flooding due to the persistent rain. Residents in Charleston woke up to streets submerged in water on Tuesday morning, prompting emergency officials to undertake rescue missions. The NHC warns that heavy rainfall will persist in portions of the Carolinas through Thursday, with additional flooding expected. Areas of the Mid-Atlantic States and the Northeast will also be impacted, with heavy rain forecasted until Saturday morning.

The National Weather Service in Charleston has confirmed the occurrence of four tornadoes and is currently investigating the possibility of more in West Ashley, Isle of Palms, and Edisto Beach. In terms of rainfall, Debby is expected to bring an additional 3-9 inches in South Carolina, with some areas potentially experiencing up to 25 inches. Southeast North Carolina may receive up to 15 inches of rain. Moreover, areas from Piedmont, South Carolina, to parts of Virginia can expect 3-7 inches of rainfall, possibly reaching 10 inches, leading to flash floods, urban flooding, and river flooding.

Debby currently has maximum sustained winds of around 60 mph, with stronger gusts. As the storm's center approaches the South Carolina coast, there is a possibility of further strengthening. However, after making landfall, Debby is forecasted to weaken as it merges with a frontal boundary over the Mid-Atlantic states on Friday. Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 185 miles from the center.

The National Weather Service is closely monitoring Debby's progress off the coast of South Carolina. It is anticipated that the remnants of the storm will bring significant rainfall to the western Carolinas, with the I-77 corridor facing the highest threat of rain and associated flooding. The Greenville-Spartanburg area is particularly at risk, and residents are advised to stay informed about local weather updates and take necessary precautions.

As Tropical Storm Debby inches closer to the South Carolina coast, the potential for severe flooding and damaging winds remains a significant concern. Residents in affected areas must remain vigilant, follow instructions from local authorities, and take steps to ensure their safety and well-being as this powerful storm approaches.