Tropical Storm Debby is creating havoc as it advances from Florida toward Georgia and the Carolinas. The storm, which began as a Category 1 hurricane before weakening, has already resulted in multiple fatalities and extensive damage.

In Charleston, South Carolina, a curfew has been announced as the city braces for some of the heaviest rains. Police will barricade roads leading into the peninsula, allowing only essential workers and emergency personnel. Mayor William Cogswell emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that 10 to 12 inches of rain could fall overnight.

State officials in South Carolina have declared that no evacuations are currently planned, but they are closely monitoring the situation. State Emergency Management Division Director Kim Stenson warned that the storm, though devoid of the high winds typical of hurricanes, poses a severe flooding risk statewide.

President Joe Biden has approved emergency declarations for both South Carolina and Florida, deploying federal aid to support recovery efforts. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper has also declared a state of emergency, anticipating power outages and flooding throughout the week.

As Debby heads toward Georgia, officials have announced a curfew for Savannah and its surrounding areas. With rainfall expected to surpass 20 inches, the storm's bands have already begun lashing Tybee Island, Georgia's largest public beach. Michelle Owens from the Tybee Island management highlighted the unprecedented nature of this rainfall.

In Florida, the aftermath of the storm is severe. Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for 61 counties. Meanwhile, the storm has led to significant power outages affecting more than 300,000 customers in Florida and Georgia.

Debby has wreaked havoc on Florida's Big Bend region, where it made landfall near Steinhatchee. Sheriff Wayne Padgett confirmed that there were no fatalities in Taylor County, though widespread road closures due to flooding and downed trees persist.

Debby has resulted in tragic fatalities: a 13-year-old boy died after a tree fell on a mobile home, a truck driver perished in Tampa, and a car accident claimed two lives. The storm is expected to slow down and turn eastward, focusing its wrath on the Carolinas, with predictions of up to 30 inches of rain in some areas.

Debby's sluggish advance has drawn comparisons to Hurricane Harvey, which paralyzed Texas in 2017 with massive flooding. Climate experts suggest that global warming has amplified the intensity of storms by heating ocean waters.

Despite its weakening, Debby continues to unleash destructive floodwaters. This is notably perilous for Georgia, where rivers like the Canoochee and Ogeechee are expected to see water levels rise significantly. Governor Brian Kemp has authorized the call-up of 2,000 National Guard troops to facilitate emergency response efforts.

In response to the storm's impact, several airports in Florida, including those in Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville, have seen hundreds of flights canceled, disrupting travel plans nationwide. Delta Air Lines has issued travel waivers for affected areas, allowing passengers to reschedule without additional fees.

In Savannah, the storm's timing during a slower tourism period has mitigated some economic impact. Even so, local businesses have prepared for potential flooding, and officials have urged residents to remain vigilant.

The storm has not only disrupted civilian life but also altered political activities. Vice President Kamala Harris postponed a campaign trip to Savannah due to the adverse conditions.

As Debby continues on its path, residents in affected areas are urged to heed official warnings and evacuation orders to ensure their safety. The storm's lingering effects and the potential for re-strengthening pose ongoing threats to the U.S. East Coast.