Tropical Storm Debby - Update #2

Tropical Storm Debby Update #2

2:00 pm, August 4, 2024

 The City of Isle of Palms is closely monitoring the storm and the potential impacts to our area. City Department Heads have met to review and provide update on storm preparations, ensure buildings and facilities are secured, all necessary equipment and resources are on hand and operational, and essential & public safety personnel are on standby.  

 Weather Update:

  • Charleston County is under a Tropical Storm Watch.
  • Tropical Storm Debby is located 255 km southwest of Tampa Florida and moving at 13 mph tracking northwest.
  • Storm is expected to slow down in speed tonight and make landfall in Florida Monday afternoon as a Category 1 hurricane. 
  • Timing of impacts: Tropical storm force winds will start Monday evening- early Tuesday through Thursday. It will be a multiple day event.
  • Rainfall is predicted to be historic and catastrophic with 10-20" inches, and 20-30'' along the coast.

 City Operations:

  • Sandbag operation started this morning at 10am until supplies run out. Sandbags will be distributed at the Public Safety Building, 30 JC Long Blvd. and be limited to 10 per residence for Isle of Palms residents only. Sand will be available in the large Municipal Parking Lot on Pavilion Drive. Residents will need to fill their own bags. 
  • Public Works staff is working today clearing ditches and storm drains and pre-deploying pumps in flood prone areas.
  • Yellow garbage barrels on the beach will be serviced this evening and be removed from the beach tomorrow morning.
  • City is increasing staffing in the Police and Fire Departments to ensure swift response and recovery. 
  • Normal garbage route on Monday, August 5th but the rest of the week will depend on Charleston County Landfill operating schedule.
  • City offices will operate normal business hours tomorrow, Monday, August 5th.

 Suggested Preparations: 

  • Residents in flood prone areas are encouraged to move vehicles to higher ground. 
  • Remove or secure any items around the home that could cause damage due to the potential for strong wind gusts. 
  • Do not drive around barricades or through standing water.
  • Residents should continue to monitor local weather forecasts and make preparations now. 

 Important phone numbers:

  • For Police and Fire emergencies, please call 911.
  • Isle of Palms Police non-emergency: 843-886-6522.
  • Isle of Palms Water and Sewer Commission: 843-886-6148.
  • Dominion Energy Customer Service: 1-800-251-7234
  • Downed/Sparking Lines: 1-888-333-4465
  • Gas Leaks: 1-800-815-0083
  • Power Outages: 1-888-333-4465

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