News Summary
As the holiday weekend approaches, Jacksonville residents are being advised to prepare for potential severe weather due to Tropical Depression Three. Located 150 miles off the coast with winds at 35 mph, the storm may bring heavy rain and strong winds. Experts predict 1-2 inches of rainfall, particularly impacting areas like Hilton Head. Additionally, there is a heightened risk of rip currents for beachgoers. Though significant impacts are expected later in the weekend, safety precautions are advised during this unpredictable weather.
Jacksonville Residents Brace for Potential Storm Over Holiday Weekend
Hey there, Jacksonville! As we gear up for the holiday weekend, it looks like we might be in for a bit of a stormy surprise. Meteorologists are closely watching a newly formed area of low pressure just off our beautiful coast, which has the potential to develop into a tropical depression or even a tropical storm called Chantal. Exciting, right? But there are some crucial details you should know.
What We Know So Far
Currently, this system, identified as Tropical Depression Three, is floating about 150 miles east of Jacksonville. It has sustained winds clocking in at around 35 mph and is hanging out in one place, being almost stationary. With a minimum central pressure of 1012 millibars, it’s expected to start moving north towards South Carolina by Saturday night. So if you have any plans along the coast, keep an eye on the weather!
Heavy Rain and Winds on the Way
As the weekend unfolds, residents can expect heavy rains and strong winds. Forecasts suggest that areas like Hilton Head could see between 1 and 2 inches of rainfall from Friday through Sunday evening. Sounds like a perfect excuse to cozy up indoors with some hot cocoa if you ask me!
Frank Strait from the S.C. State Climate Office noted that this developing storm may linger longer over the ocean than predicted previously, which could ramp up those rain levels. It seems the storm will be moving a little slower than we thought, and that might give it more time to intensify. So, be prepared for some variable weather as we head deeper into the weekend.
Rip Currents and Beach Safety
If you’re tempted to hit the beach, you should know there is a moderate risk of rip currents on Friday, which is anticipated to escalate to a high risk on Saturday. This is expected to stick around for a while, like a pesky guest that just won’t leave. If you are planning to take a dip, it might be wiser to stay safe and enjoy the water from afar.
On Friday and Saturday
Friday evening and most of Saturday along the First Coast will likely bring gusty coastal conditions and rough surf. Jacksonville itself might escape any significant impacts from this system until later in the weekend, with indirect effects, like increased moisture and higher rain chances starting on Sunday. Think of it as a teaser leading up to the main event!
What’s Next?
For Saturday, Jacksonville’s weather is expected to remain mostly dry, although the chance of rain will be on the rise as Sunday approaches. According to forecasts, there’s about a 40% chance of rain on Sunday, which will ramp up to about 70% by midweek. So it looks like the storm is only the beginning of some wetter days ahead!
Keep an Eye on the Skies
While there are no additional tropical threats brewing in the Atlantic right now, it’s important to stay informed. An Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunter aircraft is scheduled to check out the system on Friday afternoon. That should give us a clearer picture of the storm’s development and future path!
So, Jacksonville, keep your umbrellas handy and stay tuned for updates over the weekend. Whether you’re planning a beach day or staying in, make sure to take precautions and stay safe.
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Additional Resources
- First Coast News: Tropical Storm Chantal Forecast
- News4Jax: Jacksonville Friday Night Fireworks Forecast
- Jacksonville.com: 4th of July Forecast
- Wikipedia: Hurricane Formation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
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