News Summary
Charleston County has issued a high surf advisory as Tropical Storm Chantal approaches the coast. Large breaking waves and potential beach erosion are expected. Residents are advised to stay out of the water due to dangerous swimming conditions and to prepare for possible flooding and power outages. Rainfall could reach up to six inches, with wind gusts estimated at 45 mph. The public is urged to follow safety precautions and stay updated through local authorities.
Charleston, SC – A high surf advisory has been issued for Charleston County as Tropical Storm Chantal approaches the South Carolina coastline. The advisory, released by the National Weather Service (NWS) at 1:33 AM on Sunday, warns residents of potential beach erosion and hazardous swimming conditions, effective until 8 AM.
With large breaking waves expected to reach heights of 4 to 6 feet in the surf zone, the NWS has cautioned inexperienced swimmers to stay out of the water due to the dangerous conditions. In addition to the advisory, officials have issued a Tropical Storm Watch, highlighting the seriousness of the approaching storm.
Tropical Storm Chantal is currently positioned about 65 miles east-southeast of Charleston, with sustained winds recorded at 50 mph and moving north at 7 mph. As the storm nears landfall in northern Charleston County on Sunday morning, rain bands have already begun to sweep over the coast, intensifying concerns about heavy rainfall and strong winds.
The NWS anticipates rain totals may reach four inches, with some areas potentially seeing up to six inches. This high volume of rainfall raises the risk of flash flooding, particularly during the anticipated 5 PM high tide on Saturday. Alongside the heavy rain, wind gusts could peak at 45 mph, with stronger gusts expected across bridges.
Residents should also be aware of the possibility of isolated power outages and downed tree limbs due to the strong winds. The NWS warns that life-threatening rip currents and dangerous surf conditions will persist through early next week, underlining the need for public safety precautions.
Authorities recommend that residents continue to monitor updates from the National Hurricane Center and NWS Charleston for the latest information regarding the storm’s path and potential impacts. Warnings have been issued for parts of both South Carolina and North Carolina. The timeframe of greatest concern for impacts from Chantal is expected to be between 10 PM on Saturday and 8 AM on Sunday.
In light of the storm, the NWS has also provided advice for anyone caught in rip currents, urging individuals to relax and float, avoiding swimming against the current, and signaling for help when necessary. Beachgoers are encouraged to select lifeguarded beaches whenever possible and to refrain from swimming alone at unguarded locations.
It is important to note that while Charleston County doesn’t possess the authority to close bridges, residents are reminded to be aware of bridge procedures during high wind conditions. Those living in the area should take all necessary precautions in anticipation of potential flooding and high surf.
As updates continue to emerge, Charleston County Emergency Management is keeping a close watch on Tropical Storm Chantal and its progression towards the coast. Residents are have been advised to prepare for the possibility of flooding, strong winds, and associated services disruptions.
With the storm expected to strengthen further ahead of landfall, Charleston’s emergency services are ready to respond to any incidents arising from Chantal’s impacts. Residents are encouraged to remain alert and follow all guidance from local authorities regarding safety measures as the situation unfolds.
Local authorities are actively working to ensure the safety of residents as Tropical Storm Chantal poses significant weather-related challenges. Adherence to public safety notices will be crucial as the storm approaches and potentially affects the region through the weekend.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tropical Storm Chantal Approaches South Carolina, Threatening July 4 Plans
Tropical Storm Chantal Approaches Charleston, SC
Myrtle Beach Braces for Tropical Storm Chantal
Charleston on High Alert as Tropical Storm Chantal Approaches
Charleston Prepares for Tropical Storm Chantal
Tropical Storm Chantal Approaches the Carolinas
Rip Current Advisory Issued for Charleston County Beaches
Tropical Depression Three Strengthens Off Jacksonville Coast
Charleston Prepared as Tropical Depression Three Approaches
Charleston Residents Brace for Tropical Depression Three
Additional Resources
- Herald Online
- Wikipedia: Tropical cyclone
- Post and Courier
- Google Search: Tropical Storm Chantal
- WYFF News 4
- Google Scholar: Tropical Storm Chantal
- Count On 2
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tropical storm
- Post and Courier
- Google News: Tropical Storm Chantal South Carolina
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.
