Tropical Depression Forms Off Florida, Expected to Strengthen as It Approaches the Carolinas

SOUTH CAROLINA — The National Weather Service has confirmed that Tropical Depression Three has formed off the coast of Florida as of July 4, and forecasters are warning it may strengthen into a tropical storm as it moves northward toward the Carolinas.

Satellite imagery released by TropicalTidbits.com shows a rapidly organizing system over the Atlantic Ocean, with bands of deep convection and well-defined circulation patterns. The storm is currently centered off Florida’s northeast coast and tracking in a north-northeast direction, potentially placing South Carolina and North Carolina in its path over the coming days.

What We Know So Far

Formation: Designated as Tropical Depression Three, the system became organized enough on July 4 to warrant classification.
Location: As of the latest data from GOES-19 satellite imagery, the storm is located offshore, between 76°W and 79°W longitude.
Direction: Forecast models suggest the depression will move toward coastal South Carolina and North Carolina.
Intensity: While still a depression, there is a strong chance of it being named Tropical Storm Emily if sustained winds surpass 39 mph in the next 24–48 hours.

Possible Impacts on the Carolinas

While it’s too early to predict landfall with certainty, coastal communities in both Carolinas are being warned to prepare for:

Heavy rainfall and flash flooding in low-lying areas
Strong coastal winds, especially in exposed barrier islands
Rough surf and rip currents beginning late July 5 and intensifying into the weekend
Potential tornado risk, particularly along the storm’s eastern edge

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has not yet issued official watches or warnings, but meteorologists advise residents along the coast to closely monitor updates.

Emergency Services Preparing Ahead of Storm

Emergency managers in Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and Wilmington are already mobilizing resources and reviewing flood mitigation strategies. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has not yet declared a state of emergency, but officials have indicated such measures could be considered if the storm intensifies or shifts westward.

Local leaders are urging residents to review evacuation plans, check emergency supply kits, and avoid unnecessary travel along coastal highways once tropical storm conditions begin to develop.

Storm Season Just Getting Started

This is the third named system of the Atlantic hurricane season, which is forecasted to be above average in activity due to historically warm ocean temperatures and a weakening El Niño. With July and August historically marking the beginning of peak storm activity, this early system could be the first of several serious threats in the Southeast.

Are you located in coastal South Carolina or North Carolina? Let us know how you’re preparing for the upcoming storm. Share your tips, concerns, or storm photos with the team at saludastandard-sentinel.com — your local voice during severe weather.