Tornado watch issued as Debby’s outer bands reach South Carolina

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – A tornado watch was issued Monday afternoon for portions of the South Carolina coast as Tropical Storm Debby’s outer bands move into the area.

The tornado watch is active for Berkeley, Charleston, Colleton, and Dorchester counties until 1:00 a.m.

Tropical Storm Debby’s outer rainbands began entering the Charleston area; however, the system is forecast to move into South Carolina and reemerge over the Atlantic early Tuesday morning into Wednesday.

“Instability will increase this evening as Debby moves slowly northeast,” said Storm Team 2 Meteorologist Josh Marthers. “Bands of showers and thunderstorms rolling off of the Atlantic will be capable of producing isolated tornadoes.”

The slow-moving storm will bring significantly heavy rainfall, flooding, and gusty wind to the area. Tornadoes are possible within the storm’s rain bands.

A tropical storm warning and storm surge warning are also in effect for Colleton, Charleston, and Berkeley counties.

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