Remembering 2012’s Tropical Storm Debby

Tropical Storm Debby in 2012 provided a good reminder for residents in North Florida that you don’t need a major hurricane to see widespread damage and problems. Debby formed during late June meandered for several days in the Gulf of Mexico. Hostile conditions prevented the system from ever getting organized. It eventually made landfall on June 26 as a weak tropical storm, just north of Cedar Key.

Despite its weak status, record rainfall and severe weather were reported in several parts of the state. Rainfall amounts approached 30 inches in some part of North-Central Florida. Rainfall amounts from the tropical storm were the highest since Hurricane Dora back in 1964. The heavy rainfall led to hundreds of homes being damaged or destroyed and several major roadways, including I-10, State Road 90 and State Road 98 being impassible.

The heavy rainfall led to several large sinkholes opening in parts of Northeast Florida and even forced the evacuation of parts of Live Oak. Jacksonville reported 13.78 inches of rain and hundreds of homes along the Black Creek reported damage from high water levels. A daily record of rainfall was reported on June 25 in Jax, with 7.36” falling during the 24 hour period.

Its estimated 21 tornadoes formed during the tropical cyclone, keeping National Weather Service Offices busy, across the state. It’s estimated the tropical cyclone led to $250 million in damages and at least 10 deaths in the Southeast. Despite the damage and destruction, the World Meteorological Organization did not retire the name. The name “Debby” was used during the 2018 season and will again surface during the year 2024.