Tropical Storm Chantal Forms Off South Carolina Coast, Bringing Flood Threat to Carolinas
CHARLESTON, S.C. – A newly formed tropical storm off the South Carolina coast is expected to deliver heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and dangerous surf conditions to much of the Carolinas through Sunday morning, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC) and regional weather outlets.
Tropical Storm Chantal officially formed early Saturday morning approximately 150 miles off the coast of Charleston, triggering a tropical storm watch from Edisto Beach to Little River Inlet.
Storm Track and Expected Impacts
Forecasters expect the storm to brush the coastline between Saturday and Sunday, with windy conditions, strong rip currents, and coastal flooding likely to affect beach towns from Wilmington, NC, to Myrtle Beach, SC.
“Minimal impacts for inland areas, but flooding is possible along coastal zones, especially during high tide cycles,” tweeted meteorologist Tara Lane of Queen City News.
Key concerns include:
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Heavy rainfall through Sunday morning
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Flash flooding in low-lying areas
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High risk of rip currents
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Wind gusts near beaches and along the intracoastal waterway
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Rough surf and beach erosion potential
Emergency Response and Weather Alerts
The National Weather Service has urged residents and beachgoers to avoid swimming in unguarded areas due to the elevated rip current threat.
Local emergency agencies in Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and surrounding coastal counties are monitoring water levels and preparing for potential road closures or flash flood responses if rainfall intensifies.
Looking Ahead
The storm is not expected to make a direct landfall but may continue to influence coastal weather patterns through early next week, with scattered downpours and marine hazards remaining a concern.
Boaters, tourists, and coastal residents are encouraged to monitor updates from:
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Local weather authorities such as Queen City News and WCBD
Are you seeing storm impacts in your area? Share photos, weather updates, or flooding concerns at saludastandard-sentinel.com — your input helps keep your community informed and safe.
