Hurricane Debby made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane near Steinhatchee, Florida, on August 5, 2024, bringing significant impacts to Jacksonville and the surrounding areas. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the storm’s effects, response efforts, and key statistics.
Summary of Hurricane Debby’s Impact
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Landfall | August 5, 2024, at 7 am EDT near Steinhatchee, Florida |
| Maximum Sustained Winds | 75 mph |
| Power Outages | Approximately 143,000 Floridians without power; 322,000 accounts restored |
| Storm Surge Warnings | Issued for Coastal Franklin, Wakulla, Jefferson, Taylor, Dixie, Levy, Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, Hillsborough, Manatee, and Pinellas |
| Tropical Storm Warnings | Issued for Gulf, Liberty, Gadsden, Leon, Columbia, Baker, Nassau, Duval, Union, Bradford, St. Johns, Alachua, Putnam, Inland Levy, Marion, Lake, Citrus, Sumter, Lake, Hernando, Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, and Coastal Charlotte |
Jacksonville’s Response to Hurricane Debby
City Updates and Preparations
- Mayor Donna Deegan’s Update: Mayor Deegan provided updates on the city’s response, emphasizing the worst of the storm would hit within 12 to 18 hours, with wind gusts reaching 35 to 45 mph. She advised residents not to drive due to localized flooding and mentioned that three shelters were still open: Legends Center, Landmark Middle School, and Lavilla School of the Arts.
- Emergency Preparedness: City departments planned for the storm all weekend, concerned about heavy rain and potential flooding. Emergency Preparedness Chief Andre Ayoub advised residents to seek refuge if they lived in low-lying areas and to avoid sightseeing during the storm.
Closures and Disruptions
- School Closures: Duval County Public Schools, Nassau County Public Schools, Clay County Public Schools, Baker County Public Schools, and Putnam County Public Schools were closed on Monday. Glynn County Public Schools and Camden County Public Schools in Georgia were also closed on Monday and Tuesday.
- Government Offices: City of Jacksonville government offices and facilities were closed on Monday, including libraries, community and senior centers, and parks. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office was also closed.
- Transportation: The Jacksonville Transportation Authority reported delays in bus routes due to flooding. The Automated Skyway was closed, and the Connexion & Connexion Plus and Clay Paratransit services were limited to life-sustaining trips. The St. Johns River Ferry service was suspended mid-day but resumed later in the afternoon.
Weather Conditions
- Rain and Flooding: Heavy rain continued throughout the day, with potential for catastrophic flooding. Flash Flood Warnings were issued for Columbia County, and State Road 26 was closed at the Gilchrist/Alachua County line.
- Wind Gusts: Wind gusts reached up to 40-50 mph in rainbands, with a potential for isolated tornadoes.
- Storm Surge: Storm Surge Warnings were in effect for Coastal Camden and Glynn counties in Georgia, as well as several counties in Florida.
State and Federal Response
Governor DeSantis’s Actions
- Executive Order: Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-157, declaring a state of emergency for 61 counties in anticipation of Hurricane Debby’s landfall.
- Emergency Operations: The Governor provided updates from the State Emergency Operations Center, working closely with the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) and other agencies to coordinate response efforts.
Health and Safety Measures
- Power Restoration: The State of Florida restored 322,000 power accounts, with approximately 143,000 still without power as of the morning of August 5.
- Health Services: The Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) waived prior authorization requirements for critical Medicaid services and lifted early prescription refill edits for maintenance medications to ensure continuous care during the storm.
- Special Needs Shelters: AHCA ensured reimbursement for critical Medicaid services provided in good faith to eligible recipients residing in impacted counties.
Conclusion
Hurricane Debby’s impact on Jacksonville and surrounding areas was significant, with widespread power outages, flooding, and disruptions to daily life. The city’s proactive measures, including school and office closures, emergency shelters, and transportation adjustments, helped mitigate the storm’s effects. The state’s response, led by Governor DeSantis, ensured a coordinated effort to restore power and provide essential services. As the region recovers, residents are advised to remain vigilant and follow local updates for any further instructions.
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