Tropical Depression 3 Forms Near Southeast, Heavy Rainfall Expected
- Tropical Depression Three has formed near Florida and may become Tropical Storm Chantal.
- Tropical storm watches are in effect along the South Carolina coast.
- Heavy rainfall is expected in South Carolina and North Carolina, potentially exceeding 7 inches.
- Wind gusts could reach above 40 mph along coastlines as the storm nears land.
Tropical depression expected to strengthen into Chantal
The disturbance located northeast of Florida has been officially designated as Tropical Depression Three by the National Hurricane Center. The latest assessments suggest that this weather system is likely to strengthen and may be upgraded to Tropical Storm Chantal as early as Saturday. With this system developing, preparations are already underway along the southeastern coast, particularly in South Carolina.
Heavy rainfall and flooding expected in the region
Tropical storm watches have been issued by authorities along the South Carolina coast, which may soon transition to tropical storm warnings as the system advances northward at a sluggish pace of about 2 mph. Due to its trajectory, Tropical Depression Three is expected to spend limited time over water, which could hinder its ability to intensify significantly. As the storm approaches the shore, it is projected to make landfall close to Charleston late Saturday evening or just past midnight on Sunday, with maximum sustained winds around 40 mph.
Impact on local communities and safety measures
WeatherRadar shows that heavy rainfall will begin to affect South Carolina and North Carolina over the next four days. Rain totals are predicted to be between 2 and 4 inches across various regions in South Carolina, with North Carolina possibly seeing even higher amounts as the storm moves further inland. Some estimates suggest that rainfall in parts of North Carolina and Virginia could surpass 7 inches, raising the risk of flash floods in these areas, despite the storm not being characterized by particularly strong winds. Wind gusts are anticipated to exceed 40 mph along the coasts as Chantal gets closer, and WindRadar even indicates potential gusts above 50 mph at times.
In summary, Tropical Depression Three is expected to strengthen into Tropical Storm Chantal, with significant rainfall and gusty winds impacting the southeastern coast, especially South Carolina and North Carolina. Authorities are urging residents to prepare for potential flash flooding and stay informed about the storm’s progress. The low wind threat should not overshadow the serious flood risks posed by this weather system.
