Tropical Storm Chantal: Heavy rain expected in the Carolinas

Storm Chantal, which recently formed off the coast of South Carolina, is poised to significantly impact the Carolinas with heavy rainfall and potential flash flooding. As the storm approaches landfall, forecasts indicate that areas along the coastal plain may experience rainfall amounts ranging from 2 to 4 inches, with localized regions possibly receiving up to 6 inches . This volume of precipitation raises concerns regarding flash flooding, particularly in low-lying areas and regions already saturated from previous weather events.

So far this 4th of July weekend has been great weather-wise with lots of bright sunshine yesterday and calm conditions for the firework displays across the region. Today is looking just as nice with high pressure overhead and easterly winds which will keep temperatures near to slightly below normal today.

Additionally, the humidity has been much lower this Saturday morning. Many locations recorded dewpoints in the upper 50s to lower 60s which is quite comfortable especially this time of year. The dewpoint is expected to remain pretty low for the rest of the day before winds shift tonight bringing the muggies back in.

South Carolina, and 120 miles south-southwest of Wilmington, North Carolina, with maximum sustained winds of 50 mph and moving north at 8 mph. Rain bands were impacting the coast, and the storm's center was expected to move over South Carolina overnight or early Sunday, raising flash flood concerns. The storm was forecast to weaken rapidly after landfall. Heavy rain, totaling 2 to 4 inches with local amounts up to 6 inches, was expected across the coastal plain of the Carolinas through Monday, threatening flash flooding.As of Sunday morning, Chantal had indeed made landfall in South Carolina, and was already showing signs of weakening as predicted. While the maximum sustained winds had decreased slightly to 45 mph, the National Weather Service continued to caution about the potential for heavy rainfall and flash flooding.

Areas along the South Carolina coast were already reporting rainfall totals of 2 to 3 inches, and the threat remained high as the storm continued to move inland. North Carolina was also bracing for heavy downpours as Chantal tracked northward, with emergency management officials urging residents to be prepared for possible road closures and localized flooding. The storm's forward speed had increased slightly to 10 mph, which was expected to help accelerate its dissipation. However, the risk of flash flooding would persist through Monday, particularly in low-lying areas and those with poor drainage.

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Sara H

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