News Summary
A low pressure system off Jacksonville has intensified into Tropical Depression Three, currently moving northward. Forecasts predict it will become Tropical Storm Chantal, affecting South Carolina with strong winds and heavy rain over the weekend, particularly in Hilton Head where rainfall could reach up to 6 inches. A tropical storm watch has been issued for the region, and residents are advised to prepare for severe weather and potential flash flooding as the storm approaches.
Jacksonville, Florida – A low pressure system off the coast has developed into Tropical Depression Three as of 5 p.m. on July 4, 2025. The storm is currently located approximately 150 miles east of Jacksonville and is moving northward at a slow pace of 2 mph. Meteorologists report sustained winds of up to 35 mph, with a minimum central pressure of 1012 millibars.
The system is projected to strengthen into Tropical Storm Chantal by Saturday morning. As the storm progresses, forecasts indicate that it will approach the South Carolina coastline by Saturday night, potentially bringing heavy rain and strong winds to the area. Computer models show a slower northward track than originally anticipated, delaying impacts to South Carolina until Saturday evening and continuing through Sunday.
Expected rainfall totals for Hilton Head are estimated between 1 to 2 inches from Friday to Sunday evening, with localized areas potentially receiving up to 6 inches. Coastal regions may experience tropical-storm-force winds exceeding 39 mph, primarily affecting coastal waters and beaches.
Weather Conditions to Anticipate
The development of Tropical Depression Three and its subsequent movement is subject to change, as indicated by the National Weather Service (NWS). Residents and visitors to South Carolina should prepare for severe weather conditions beginning this weekend.
A tropical storm watch has already been issued for parts of South Carolina, specifically from Edisto Beach to Little River Inlet, as conditions supporting tropical storm development are expected within the next 48 hours. Storm surge predictions call for water levels to rise 1 to 2 feet above normal in regions experiencing onshore flow.
A potential for flash flooding has also been highlighted, with heavy rainfall predicted across South Carolina from Saturday through Monday. Conditions are set to worsen from Friday to Saturday, where a moderate rip-current risk is set to escalate to a high risk, lasting throughout the weekend and possibly into early next week. Rough surf and heightened rip current conditions are expected along much of the Carolina coastline in the upcoming days.
Additional Tropical Activity
The National Hurricane Center is monitoring four additional tropical waves in the Atlantic and Caribbean. These systems are currently not considered a threat, but officials are continuing to keep a close watch on their developments.
As communities prepare for the potential impacts of Tropical Depression Three, it is essential to stay informed through official channels and be ready to take necessary precautions to ensure safety against adverse weather conditions.
Conclusion
Residents of the affected areas are advised to remain vigilant, monitor updates, and prepare for any necessary emergency measures leading into the weekend as Tropical Depression Three makes its approach to the South Carolina coastline.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charleston Prepared as Tropical Depression Three Approaches
Charleston Residents Brace for Tropical Depression Three
Jacksonville Residents Prepare for Holiday Weekend Storm
Tropical Depression 3 Develops Off the Southeastern U.S. Coast
Additional Resources
- First Coast News: Tropical Storm Chantal Forecast
- News4Jax: Tropical Depression 3 Offshore Jacksonville
- Action News Jax: First Alert Weather on Tropical Depression 3
- Naples News: Hurricane Season Update
- WOKV: Talking Tropics on Tropical Depression 3
- Wikipedia: Tropical Cyclone
- Google Search: Tropical Storms
- Google Scholar: Tropical Storms
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tropical Cyclone
- Google News: Tropical Depression
