News Summary
Tropical Storm Chantal is intensifying as it heads toward the Carolina coast, jeopardizing Fourth of July weekend plans for many travelers. With maximum sustained winds of 50 mph, Chantal is expected to make landfall between Charleston, SC, and Cape Fear, NC. Tropical storm warnings are in effect, and forecasters predict 2 to 6 inches of rain, raising concerns for flash flooding and rough surf. The South Carolina Emergency Management Division advises caution for travelers as holiday plans may be disrupted.
Tropical Storm Chantal Approaches South Carolina, Threatening Fourth of July Plans with Heavy Rainfall and Flooding Risks
Charleston, SC – Tropical Storm Chantal is strengthening as it targets the Carolina coast, posing a threat to Fourth of July weekend plans for many travelers. As of Saturday night, the storm has maximum sustained winds of 50 mph and is moving north at about 8 mph, expected to make landfall early Sunday between Charleston, SC, and Cape Fear, NC.
Currently, the center of Chantal is located approximately 65 miles east of Charleston, with tropical storm warnings in effect from the South Santee River in South Carolina to Surf City in North Carolina. Additionally, a tropical storm watch is issued for areas from Edisto Beach to the South Santee River. The South Carolina Emergency Management Division has raised concerns over the potential for flash flooding, expecting heavy rain to move in overnight Saturday.
Weather Forecast and Precautions
Total rainfall of 2 to 4 inches is anticipated across the coastal plains of the Carolinas, with some local areas potentially receiving up to 6 inches, thereby increasing the risks of flash floods. Peak storm surges of 1 to 3 feet are expected in areas under tropical storm warnings, and 1 to 2 feet in counties under storm watches. Flood watches are already in effect for several counties along the South Carolina-North Carolina border.
In light of these conditions, the Emergency Management Division is warning of isolated tornadoes along the coast and minor coastal flooding. Travelers should exercise caution when traversing roads in affected areas, particularly avoiding water-covered routes or breaking road-closure barriers. Lifeguard organizations along the beaches have reported several rescues due to rough surf and challenging conditions as visitors attempt to enjoy the long holiday weekend.
Impact on Holiday Plans
Background and Outlook
The Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30, often sees its peak activity from mid-August to mid-October. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently predicted a 60% chance of an “above-normal” Atlantic hurricane season, with forecasts indicating that there could be between 13 to 19 named storms this year. With Chantal’s early formation, it signals the ongoing need for awareness and preparedness among coastal communities and travelers alike.
As Tropical Storm Chantal continues to develop, it remains important for those along the coast to stay informed of changing conditions and heed any warnings or advisories issued by local authorities to ensure safety during this holiday weekend.
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HERE Resources
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Charleston Residents Brace for Tropical Depression Three
Jacksonville Residents Prepare for Holiday Weekend Storm
Additional Resources
- CBS News
- Wikipedia: Tropical Storm
- Fox Weather
- Google Search: Tropical Storm Chantal
- WRAL
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tropical Storm
- WIS TV
- Google News: Tropical Storm Chantal
- New York Post
- Google Scholar: Tropical Storm Chantal
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.
