What to expect as Tropical Storm Debby passes through North Carolina

Tropical Storm Debby's center will crawl through North Carolina Thursday afternoon through Friday, bringing heavy rainfall and a threat of flooding throughout central and eastern North Carolina.

Threat level: The National Weather Service put the entire Triangle on a flood watch until Friday evening, when the remnants of the storm are expected to leave the area.

• The central part of the state is expected to see 4 to 6 inches of rain as Debby slowly passes through.
• Already-saturated ground in many places is raising the risk of extreme flooding, according to the NWS.

What's next: The National Weather Service's Raleigh office warned in a Wednesday briefing that residents who live near rivers or creeks should be prepared for major flooding starting today and continuing into next week.

• Wind gusts of up to 40 mph are also expected and could lead to downed trees and power outages.
• Tornadoes are possible as well, though mainly east of Interstate 95.