Debby impacts at the coast: Tornado watch in effect, voluntary evacuation at Ocean Isle as NC coast could get 15 inches of rain [Video]

Tropical Storm Debby is approaching the North Carolina coast, prompting tropical storm and storm surge watches for parts of the state.

Wilmington is forecast to get between 10 to 15 inches of rain (roughly two months’ worth) during Debby, according to WRAL meteorologists.

WATCH: Live look at conditions at Carolina Beach

On Tuesday morning, WRAL News was at Wrightsville Beach, when some stragglers were outside in the rain. By noon, the beach was empty. The wind had picked up and waves were crashing.

At an emergency town meeting in Ocean Isle, authorities issued put the town under a state of emergency and ordered a voluntary evacuation of the town.

A tornado watch is in effect until 5 p.m. Tuesday for counties surrounding Wilmington, including Bladen, Brunswick, Columbus, New Hanover and Pender. Three tornado warnings were already issued Tuesday as the early impacts from Debby were felt at the coast.

Wilmington-area residents and visitors were advised to monitor the situation closely and make preparations. …