The Village of Bald Head Island is monitoring the progress of Tropical Storm Debby as it continues to move north. Debby is a slow-moving storm and may be downgraded to a tropical depression by the time it reaches our area.
Current Forecast:
The most recent briefing from the National Weather Service (NWS) Wilmington Office indicates that confidence is high that Debby will bring significant flooding impacts to our area. There continues to be uncertainty regarding the exact extent of wind, tornado, and surge impacts.
Heavy rainfall and flash flooding are expected Tuesday through Thursday, perhaps lingering into Friday. Rough surf, including dangerous rip currents and hazardous marine conditions, are expected to develop and persist through late in the week.
This is an evolving weather situation, and the Village will continue to monitor the NWS briefings and will be sharing them on our social channels. The latest briefings from the National Weather Service Wilmington office can be viewed HERE.
Village Actions:
Our Public Services Department is performing storm preparations to include minimizing stormwater impacts on public infrastructure (i.e., public roads) and coordinating with the BHI Club to assess lagoon levels. Fortunately, there have been dryer conditions this year and the expected rainfall will have a less negative impact than there have been with previous storm events. Notwithstanding there will likely be nuisance flooding and/or ponding of stormwater in low-lying areas to include underneath residences that may need time to percolate into the ground. Village actions for removing floodwater off the island will be undertaken to minimize this nuisance flooding if it poses a risk to public health and safety or prevents accessibility for Public Safety in response to a 911 emergency.
Given the storm’s projection, intensity, and cumulative impacts, the Village will NOT be planning to issue any evacuation orders (either voluntary or mandatory) or open the Emergency Operations Center.
Ferry operations may be impacted by this storm and the Village may close administrative offices and the Island Package Center and Post Office (IPC/PO).
Essential employees will be on the island throughout the event.
Guidance for Islanders:
Take this opportunity to make sure your preparedness kit is accessible and fully stocked. Make sure you have all your medications for the remainder of the week. Pick up any packages you may have at the IPC/PO, expect possible delays in deliveries as the barge may be suspended later in the week. Be prepared for possible impacts on ferry operations (check the BHIT app and website for updates).
The heavy rainfall will impact the island’s roadways and result in significant ponding in several areas. The water can get deep and could damage golf carts. Wind impacts are uncertain at this time, but it may be a good idea to secure your outdoor items and move items that may get wet. Always “know before you go” and check the beach forecast for rip current conditions. You can do that online HERE.
Stay connected to your trusted weather source for further developments and remain cautious as conditions could become increasingly hazardous. Additional communications will be coming as the storm progresses toward our area.
Emergency Preparedness Resources
Village website
ReadyNC
Ready.gov