WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) – As Tropical Storm Debby sluggishly picks its way into the central Carolinas through Thursday, its eastern bands will continue to heavily influence your First Alert Forecast for the Cape Fear Region. Expect a transition to more typical August weather conditions, including hot sun and, yes, scattered storms, into the weekend. This is definitely a week to have your WECT Weather App set to ping you with what may be a large menu of National Weather Service bulletins – from flooding to marine to tornado to tropical storm.

Heavy Rain: Monday and Tuesday saw between one and four inches of rain across most of the Cape Fear Region. Expect additional torrential rain bands through Thursday and possibly Friday. Total rainfall from Debby remains highly likely to exceed six inches and many spots could yet net more than ten. Exercise extreme caution when traveling, especially in times of intense rain and around areas prone to flash and drainage flooding.

River Flooding: Minor to locally moderate river flooding remains likely across the area by this weekend. For now, the official National Weather Service Forecast for the Northeast Cape Fear River at Burgaw even briefly pings major flood status with a projected Sunday crest of 17 feet. For perspective: Florence and Flood crested in the middle 20s. In any case, if the Debby forecast verifies, the river may force the closure of Whitestocking Road.

Severe Storms: Continue to stay alert around any stronger rain bands as they may be able to leverage spin from the parent storm to spawn isolated tornadoes. This marginal risk will stay valid into at least through much of Thursday.

Strong Winds: Humid east and south winds could gust up to tropical storm force – like the 30s, 40s, and 50s mph – into Thursday. Hurricane winds remain very unlikely. Keep loose yard and patio items secured, and devices charged to guard against any sporadic power outages.

Marine Impacts: High surf, rip currents, hazardous seas, and isolated waterspouts should continue to encourage you to stay out of / off of the water through at least Friday.

Thanks for staying with your First Alert Weather Team on TV, online, on your WECT Weather App, and with your comprehensive Hurricane Season guide at wect.com/hurricane.

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