WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) – While its exact path and impacts are still uncertain, emergency management officials say now is the time to prepare for Tropical Storm Debby.

Flooding, heavy rainfall and wind are all a possibility into the coming week as Tropical Storm Debby makes its way to the North Carolina Coast.

Michael Brennan is the director of the National Hurricane Center and says some areas could expect up to 15 inches of rainfall.

He says storm surges, flooding and tropical storm force winds are a possibility, but it will depend on how the storm evolves off the coast from Monday to Thursday.

“There’s a lot of possibilities that are still on the table for the motion of the system next week. I think the main message to people in coastal North Carolina in the Wilmington area is just keep watching as the forecast evolves,” Brennan said.

He recommends keeping an eye on ocean conditions as well.

“We lose a lot of people to surf and rip currents in tropical storms and hurricanes,” Brennan said. “The message to people there is pay attention to the flags that are flying on the beach, and the notices about closed beaches.”

David McIntire is the emergency management director in Brunswick County. He says the emergency management staff will continue to monitor the system for any forecast changes.

Right now, they have not increased their staff but are prepared to do so if necessary. They’re also expecting an increase in call volume.

“They may be asking if we’re doing evacuations, and maybe asking if we’re doing sheltering, where they can find sandbags, whatever it may be, and we’re prepared to answer those calls,” McIntire said.

McIntire says now is the time to prepare to avoid the last-minute rush at the store.

“I would recommend that people that need supplies, make sure they have those in place, go to the store early, get water, get batteries, make sure that your personal emergency plan is ready to go,” McIntire said.

He also says there’s a strong chance your power will go out, so make sure to stock up on flashlights and batteries.

McIntire says if you live in Brunswick County, to sign up for ReadyBrunswick emergency notifications. You can sign up here.

The National Hurricane Center will be issuing updates every six hours. They’ll issue watches and warnings about storm surges and tropical storm force winds 36 to 48 hours in advance.

The WECT weather team will be tracking the storm as well. Make sure to download the WECT First Alert Weather app for updates.

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