VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Virginia Beach Emergency Management crews are on standby and out in the community, as the Resort City braces for Tropical Storm Debby's impacts on Thursday and Friday.
Even though the city of Virginia Beach has not declared a state of emergency, Dave Topczynski said they are prepared to do it at a moment's notice.
"Crews are ready, we've got extra equipment prepped and ready to respond if needed and really we are waiting to see what Debby brings our way," said Topczynski, who is the Director of Virginia Beach's Emergency Management.
On Tuesday, city employees prepared for the impacts by checking the city's storm drains and monitored roadways like Shore Drive.
Topczynski said these crews will continue to patrol and stand by as Debby inches closer.
"There's a lot of uncertainty still in the forecasts so with those wide ranges of 3-6 inches of rain or wind that could be 10 to 20 mph," said Topczynski. "We are watching just as closely as everyone else."
Major flooding, heavy rains, and strong winds are major concerns throughout the city and the rest of Hampton Roads. Conditions are expected to get worse Wednesday night into Friday.
Topczynski is urging people to stay home if possible, and to follow VB Alerts for the latest information.
"Whether it's weather alerts or direct messaging from the city, if people sign up, they can get the latest information," said Topczynski.
Ahead of the storm's impacts, Topczynski said organizers canceled "Party at the Pier" in Sandbridge out of an abundance of caution.
For now, Virginia Beaches remain open, but this could change as Debby approaches.