Hurricane Debby hit the coast of Florida early Monday, just before 7:00 a.m. The storm, which grew in strength as it swirled through the Gulf of Mexico, could bring serious flooding to the southeast Atlantic coast later this week.

Debby, a strong Category 1 hurricane, is expected to drop record-breaking rainfall and cause devastating flooding as it moves through Georgia and up the Atlantic coastline. Some parts of southern Georgia could possibly see up to 30 inches of rain. A “high risk” warning for extreme flooding has been issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The potential for a severe weather event that could disrupt lives and activities throughout the southern half of the state is high. Meteorologist have warned that tornados could be possible as the storm moves through the state.

As the storm path can still change, authorities have urged residents to stay alert to updates and prepare for possible evacuation. As the National Weather Service issues more storm related warnings, they can be found here.