Hurricane Debby strengthens to Category 1, approaches Florida

Hurricane Debby has intensified into a Category 1 storm, with sustained winds of 80 mph, and is approaching Florida’s Big Bend, with expected landfall on Monday. The National Hurricane Center warns of a “life-threatening” storm surge, damaging winds and torrential rain.

Residents are advised to prepare for heavy rains, storm surges and power outages, with numerous flight cancellations and school closures already in effect.

Hundreds of flights were canceled or delayed on Sunday throughout Florida’s Miami, Orlando, Tampa and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airports. Flight disruptions are expected through Monday.

Over 100,000 homes and businesses, largely in north-central Florida, including Levy and Suwannee counties, are without power, according to PowerOutage.com.

Forecasts indicate hurricane Debby will slow after landfall, potentially leading to historic rainfall and severe flooding. States of emergency have been declared in Florida, Georgia and South Carolina.