Atlantic Ocean, September 18, 2025
News Summary
Tropical Storm Gabrielle has formed in the Atlantic and is not expected to impact the U.S. coastline. Meanwhile, Hurricane Erin, currently a Category 2, is likely to strengthen but also remains offshore. Rip currents pose a danger along South Carolina coasts as beachgoers are advised to stay safe. Mid-August marks the peak of the hurricane season, with predictions for numerous storms ahead. The coastal areas are seeing increased surf conditions, and safety precautions are being encouraged.
Tropical Storm Gabrielle and Hurricane Erin: The Latest from the Atlantic
Hello, folks! If you’re in the Charleston area or anywhere along the coast, you might be wondering what’s happening out in the Atlantic right now. Well, grab your popcorn because we’ve got some important weather updates for you! As we navigate through the hurricane season, things are finally heating up out in the ocean—or should we say, swirling a bit!
Meet Tropical Storm Gabrielle
Yes, you heard it right! Tropical Storm Gabrielle has officially formed in the Atlantic basin after a notably dry spell this hurricane season. It’s the only named storm in the Atlantic at the moment, so it’s definitely the star of the show! But don’t worry about Gabrielle putting a damper on your beach plans—official reports suggest that it won’t be affecting Hilton Head or the East Coast as we move forward. The talented hurricane expert Michael Lowry has indicated that Gabrielle will likely veer away from land before reaching the U.S., meaning no direct threats here!
Forecasts reveal that Gabrielle will gradually strengthen into a hurricane as we approach the weekend, potentially becoming more powerful late this weekend or early next week. Currently, it’s a storm in the making, keeping our eyes peeled!
The Companionship of Hurricane Erin
But wait, there’s more! Hurricane Erin made her spectacular debut in the eastern Atlantic Ocean just this Monday morning and is expected to gain strength throughout the week. With winds clocking in at 110 mph, Erin is classified as a Category 2 hurricane and is projected to transition into a Category 3 hurricane shortly!
Now, we’re sure you’re wondering whether Erin will pay us a visit. Fortunately, experts believe it’s unlikely that Erin will make landfall in the U.S. anytime soon. However, keep in mind that distant hurricanes can still kick up some dangerous surf conditions along the South Carolina coast. The lead meteorologist in Charleston highlights that rip currents are a significant danger during hurricane season, being the third highest cause of hurricane-related fatalities in the U.S. Always a good reminder to stay safe while enjoying our beautiful beaches!
Understanding the Season
Mid-August typically signals the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season, and this year is living up to those expectations. With water temperatures being just right for storm formation, there’s a lot happening out in our oceans. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration even updated its 2025 predictions to anticipate 13-18 named storms and 5-9 hurricanes.
So far this season, we’ve had five named tropical storms, including the fiery Erin. The closest storm to Hilton Head this year was Tropical Storm Chantal, which managed to make landfall near Litchfield Beach but skirted Hilton Head, avoiding much of the impact.
What to Expect
As for Erin, as the week progresses, it’s expected to weaken to Category 1 strength with winds around 90 mph as it heads towards the Canadian Maritimes by Friday night. Meanwhile, tropical storm warnings remain in effect for parts of the Outer Banks and portions of the New Jersey shore.
Also worth noting, a high rip current risk has been reported from Hilton Head Island through Myrtle Beach, resulting in red flags flying at all beaches. Swimmers are advised to stay out of the water for safety until possibly Friday afternoon. Just a heads up, folks!
As if that wasn’t exciting enough, forecasters are also keeping a close eye on two tropical waves near the northern Antilles and southwest of the Cape Verde Islands. Guess what? Both have a chance of developing into tropical systems over the next week, so there’s definitely more action brewing offshore!
What’s the Weather Like on Land?
For those of you in Columbia and the Midlands, expect mostly dry weather with clear skies in the low 90s on Wednesday and Thursday. Scattered showers might make an appearance by Friday, but no huge worries there. As the weekend rolls in, temperatures could dip to the low to mid-80s, with a cooler, drier pattern anticipated starting Tuesday. Sounds pretty pleasant!
FAQ Section
What is the current status of Tropical Storm Gabrielle?
Tropical Storm Gabrielle has formed in the Atlantic and is not expected to impact the U.S. coastline in the coming days.
Will Hurricane Erin affect South Carolina?
Hurricane Erin is expected to remain well offshore but could create dangerous surf and rip currents on South Carolina coasts.
What precautions should beachgoers consider?
With a high rip current risk in effect, swimmers should avoid going into the water, especially where red flags are posted.
What will the weather be like this week?
Expect mostly dry skies with temperatures in the low 90s in Columbia and Midlands, dropping into the low to mid-80s by the weekend.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Severe Thunderstorm Alert for Fairfield, Kershaw, and Richland Counties
Severe Thunderstorm Hits Greater Oconee – What You Need to Know
Hawaii Braces for Hurricane Kiko: State of Emergency Declared
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Hits Upstate South Carolina
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings in the Carolinas and Capital Region
Tropical Wave Raises Concerns in the Atlantic Region
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Tropical Storm Updates
- Wikipedia: Hurricane Season
- WLTX: Tropical Storm Chantal
- Google Search: Tropical Storm Chantal
- AOL: Tropical Storm Erin
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane
- Island Packet: Hurricane Season Overview
- Google News: Hurricane Erin
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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