Tropical Depression Debby wrecks havoc in North Carolina

On Thursday, Tropical Depression Debby wreaked havoc as it moved through central and eastern North Carolina, bringing torrential rain, flooding, and tornadoes. The National Weather Service confirmed at least five tornadoes touched down across the state, with two near Franklin County.

Hiding from the storm

In the face of fear and uncertainty, Franklin County resident Michelle Riley recounted her harrowing experience during the tornado. “I was scared to death,” she admitted, saying she took shelter in her bathroom as the tornado swirled debris around her house. She lay flat on her stomach, bracing herself for impact.

The aftermath of Tropical Depression Debby

Franklin County suffered enormous damage as Debby tore through the region, uprooting trees and causing severe property damage. However, Franklin County was not the only region tormented by tornadoes. A middle school in Wilson County was left in shambles by a tornado that also claimed the life of a man as it demolished his home. In total, the National Weather Service issued 27 warnings throughout central North Carolina, with eight warnings targeting Franklin County.

Describing the destruction, Nicholas Thorpe from Franklin County Emergency Management said, “A lot of damage we’ve been seeing across the county has been mainly vegetative: Trees and limbs down, and with it, power lines.”

Counting their blessings

Despite the widespread terror and destruction, no injuries were reported in Franklin County during the storm. Residents like Riley felt a mixture of shock and gratitude in the aftermath. “I could really kiss the ground right now,” she said, bringing light to the fact that residents were spared from physical harm.

Adam Wood, another local resident, reflected on the incident, “All that matters at the end of the day is everybody’s still here. No one got hurt.”

Looking forward

While the immediate threat from Debby has passed, residents are now grappling with the aftermath. They are cognisant of the ongoing flooding risks and are preparing for a long road to recovery. However, residents remain grateful that their community avoided loss of life, repeating a common sentiment that damaged belongings are replaceable, but human life is not.